10 Ways to Navigate Work When Your Workplace Ignores Global Crises

If your workplace is carrying on as if nothing is happening, you're not alone. As the world witnesses unspeakable violence in Palestine and Lebanon, along with the devastating conflicts in Sudan and Congo and climate crisis-induced disasters like hurricanes and floods, many of us are grappling with an overwhelming sense of helplessness.

It's hard to focus on ‘business as usual’ when so many people are suffering around the world.

In times like these, it’s important to recognise the emotional toll this takes on us, especially when our workplaces don’t acknowledge these crises.

Here are ten ways to navigate these difficult emotions and advocate for change:

1. Acknowledge Your Grief and Emotions

It’s normal to feel grief, anger, or helplessness when confronted with such horrific violence. These feelings don’t make you weak—they reflect your humanity and emotional intelligence. Feeling this grief means your heart is connected to the suffering of others, and that’s a powerful thing.

2. Set Boundaries

It’s crucial to protect your mental and emotional health during this time. If work feels overwhelming, it’s okay to set boundaries. Communicate with your manager or team about what you can and cannot handle right now.

You don’t have to push through as if everything is fine when it’s not.

3. Speak Up

You can also encourage your workplace to bring in external facilitators or experts like Other Box to lead discussions on global conflicts and its impact on employees. Creating open forums for dialogue may encourage leadership to address these issues in a meaningful way and help others in your workplace feel seen and heard.

4. Educate Yourself and Others

One of the most effective ways to make an impact is through education. Take the time to deepen your understanding of the historical and political context behind the atrocities unfolding from Palestine and Lebanon to Congo and Sudan. Share resources with colleagues or friends to encourage informed, thoughtful discussions.

Education is resistance—when we understand the root causes of oppression, we are better equipped to challenge misinformation and ignorance.

5. Find or Create a Safe Space

If your workplace doesn’t offer a space to discuss global events, you can create one. Reach out to colleagues who may be feeling similarly and offer to form a small support group. A safe space to share thoughts, emotions, and concerns can help lighten the emotional burden.

6. Engage in Active Solidarity

When feelings of helplessness arise, channel them into action. Share resources, raise awareness, and participate in online and offline advocacy efforts. Ask yourself how you can contribute to long-term change, from pushing for more inclusive policies at work to joining advocacy groups outside of work. Every small action ripples into a larger impact.

7. Take Time Off if Necessary

If the weight of the situation becomes overwhelming, consider taking a mental health day or some time off. Many workplaces offer mental health leave, and it’s important to prioritise your well-being. You don’t have to bear the world's burden without taking time to rest and recharge.

8. Allow Yourself To Grieve

Grieving over the atrocities unfolding in the Middle East is not only natural, it’s necessary. Don’t let anyone tell you that you should disconnect from that grief. This is emotional intelligence in action, showing that you care deeply about the world around you. Grieving is part of processing these overwhelming events and finding your path forward.

9. Practice Self-Care and Resilience

In moments of helplessness, it’s easy to neglect your own well-being. Make time for self-care practices that ground you—whether it’s meditation, journaling, or talking with a therapist. Strengthening your mental and emotional resilience allows you to stay engaged in the long-term fight for justice.

10. You Are Not Alone

It can feel isolating if your workplace doesn’t acknowledge what’s happening. But remember, you are not alone. Many people worldwide feel the same grief, outrage, and helplessness. Lean on your community, support networks, and global solidarity efforts. Together, we can make our voices heard and work towards a world where such violence is no longer normalised.

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We know firsthand how difficult it is to carry on with 'business as usual' when so much devastation is happening in the world. The atrocities in Palestine, Lebanon, Sudan, and Congo, along with the catastrophic hurricanes and floods caused by the climate crisis, are all interconnected.

These crises stem from systemic injustices—whether from colonialism, environmental degradation, or the ongoing exploitation of vulnerable communities.

If your workplace hasn’t acknowledged any of these crises, know that your emotions are valid, and you have the right to prioritise your well-being. Use your voice, educate yourself and others, and take action where you can. Every small step, whether in solidarity or advocacy, counts.

If you require professional support, you can contact us here, to explore how we can advise.