Employers struggle with determining appropriate compassionate or bereavement leave policies as grief affects everyone differently and no two bereavements are the same. While arranging a funeral may be a brief distraction from grief, it can take months for the reality to hit for some. Returning to work after only a few days can be profoundly difficult for employees dealing with loss. Ultimately, employers need engaged employees and bereaved employees need time, space, and understanding to grieve, and a supportive work environment can help them stay productive members of their team in the long run.