How to Support a Coworker Who Is Struggling with Their Mental Health
Everyone has their ups and downs from a mental health perspective, and this is often something that comes to light in a professional context.
Because of this, it’s necessary to not only be tuned in to your own mental state, but also to have a handle on how your colleagues are faring. Here’s what to look out for, and how to provide support to people going through difficult times.
Recognizing the Signs of Mental Health Struggles in Coworkers
Being aware and sensitive towards weaker moments that coworkers might be experiencing is important. When mental health becomes an obstacle, clear signs often emerge:
- Changes in work performance or productivity.
- Regular tardiness, more time spent away from work or frequent absences.
- Noticeable mood swings like becoming withdrawn, anxious, sad or irritable.
- Visible alterations in appearance like neglecting personal hygiene.
These indicators can signal emotional distress. However, do not assume these observations to always imply a serious problem. It's essential to treat such circumstances carefully. Let your empathy pave the way for offering support.
Setting Up an Employee Recognition Program: A Supportive Tool
One effective way to bolster a positive work environment is to implement social recognition programs for employees. These initiatives can have immense benefits, such as:
- Boosting employee morale and engagement.
- Encouraging teamwork and collaboration.
- Enhancing job satisfaction.
Recognition programs can take different shapes based on your workplace context. An example might be an ‘Employee of the Month' award or a simple shout-out in team meetings appreciating efforts and achievements. Always ensure these recognitions are genuine, timely, and specific to foster authenticity.
Further, they serve two important roles. The first is reinforcing desirable behaviors among everyone. The second is ensuring that those experiencing tough times feel valued, respected, and part of the communal fabric at work.
Fostering Open and Non-Judgmental Communication
Encouraging a candid communication culture surrounding mental health in the workplace is vital for helping colleagues who are struggling. Here are some key aspects to consider:
- Encourage open dialogue: Allow space and time for regular check-ins where team members can express their feelings openly.
- Practice active listening: Show genuine interest in what a colleague shares instead of quickly offering solutions or advice. This will help develop your own communication skills, which is a bonus.
- Avoid office gossip: Confidentiality fosters trust which makes it easier for someone to speak up about struggles.
Implementing these measures creates an emotionally safe workspace, which can make all the difference. When we nurture non-judgmental attitudes towards mental health, those facing challenges feel less isolated and more understood.
Promoting a Healthy Work-Life Balance
Maintaining an optimal work-life balance significantly contributes to good mental health. Here are some practical tips:
- Encourage regular breaks: Intermittent breaks can decrease stress and increase productivity.
- Support flexible schedules: Allowing flexible working hours and mental health days promotes autonomy, reduces pressure, and improves performance.
- Discourage overtime culture: It's essential that employees have time to relax, recharge, and engage with other aspects of their lives.
As a colleague or team leader, promoting practices that ensure this delicate equilibrium between personal and professional lives showcases supportiveness.
Encouraging Professional Help: Resources and Referrals within the Workplace Context
Sometimes, extending a supportive hand might mean steering coworkers toward professional aid. To do this effectively:
- Familiarize yourself with your company's Employee Assistance Program (EAP): Refer coworkers to these resources when necessary.
- Share information about mental health services: Leaflets, posters or web links can remind staff of the available help.
- Encourage the use of teletherapy: Today's remote therapy options eliminate accessibility issues.
Collaboratively discussing therapeutic interventions reduces stigma around seeking such assistance, so don’t be shy about bringing attention to this aspect in group settings, rather than only one-on-one interactions.
The Bottom Line
We all need to look out for each other more, particularly where mental health is concerned. Hopefully, these tips will give you the means to reach out to co-workers with confidence, and also address your own issues.
Coffee junkie. Spoonie. Writer about all things chronic illness and mental health. Friend of animals everywhere.
Dr. Wilson graduated from Rosalind Franklin University of Medicine and Science and completed her residency in Internal Medicine at Advocate Good Shepherd Hospital in Barrington, IL. Dr. Wilson specializes in providing culturally competent and trauma-informed care to patients with physical disabilities. In addition to her private practice, she works as a science communicator, teaching health literacy to middle school and high school students in her local school district.
