When work hurts

2017 marks the release of the book by Claude de Scorraille, Olivier Brosseau and Grégoire Vitry When Work Does Hurt. This work addresses the issues of suffering at work, drawing on the systemic and strategic approach developed by the Palo Alto school. This book offers tools and strategies to understand and manage the difficulties encountered in the professional environment.

“Burn-out, harassment, conflicts, silent suffering, suicidal thoughts, addiction, post-traumatic stress syndrome, incivility, lack of authority... Faced with work-related illnesses, doctors prescribe drug treatments; legal counsel seeks redress. And yet, the work often continues to hurt as much as ever. As if these responses were not enough to achieve relief from individual, collective and organizational suffering. Here we present the method and techniques from the Palo Alto systemic and strategic model that we implement to help our patients and clients overcome their psychological suffering and resolve their problems. This book is aimed as much at those who suffer from their work as at those who are responsible for alleviating that suffering.”

Preview 

The authors offer an in-depth analysis of the causes and consequences of suffering at work. The book focuses on the psychological and relational mechanisms that can lead to burnout, depression and other forms of psychological distress in the workplace.

Content and main themes  

Understanding suffering at work:  

  The authors explore the different sources of suffering at work, including chronic stress, interpersonal conflicts, and organizational pressures. They highlight how these factors can lead to a decline in employee mental health.

Systemic and strategic approach:  

The book introduces the key concepts of the systemic and strategic approach, showing how this method can be used to analyze and resolve relational problems at work. Vitry explains how interactions and communications can be optimized to prevent and manage crisis situations.

Intervention strategies:  

Concrete strategies are proposed to help individuals and organizations better manage suffering at work. This includes problem solving techniques, strategic communication, and specific therapeutic interventions.

Case studies :  

The authors illustrate their points with numerous case studies, drawn from their clinical experience and their interventions in business. These practical examples provide a better understanding of the application of theoretical concepts and the benefits of systemic interventions.

Practical tools:  

  The book offers practical tools for mental health professionals, managers, and human resources consultants. These tools aim to improve the quality of life at work and create healthier and more productive work environments.

Conclusion  

When Work Hurts is an essential guide for anyone looking to understand and improve the work dynamic in their organization. Grégoire Vitry brings a unique perspective and innovative solutions to face the psychological and relational challenges of the modern professional world.