How to Identify and Support Employees in Distress

Some days you may notice stress in your people, particularly during busy periods where all hands are on deck. Though sadly, there may be occasions where an individual appears ‘on the edge’. Perhaps they’re taking more sick days than usual, are disengaged and withdrawn and seem not quite themselves.

Identifying the signs of distress in your employees is one thing, supporting the individual is another. We’ll guide you through how to spot the signs, provide support and how you can work with them in the long run to ensure they can carry out their duties whilst working on their mental wellbeing.

Why employees might be in distress

There are factors outside of the workplace that can contribute to an individual appearing distressed at work. This could be relationship or family problems, financial worries, the volatility of the global economy…the reasons are endless. Sometimes it could be to do with the immediate environment in the workplace. Are you showing you care during busy periods? Are you providing space and time for your people to engage in their mental and physical wellbeing?

Further distress can be caused when an individual knows they aren’t feeling themselves. It may even exacerbate or cause anxiety when they’re in work, but are afraid of mental health stigma, and being discriminated against or looked down upon for feeling the way they do. Having a culture of openness can help mitigate this and encourage employees to come forward if they’re not feeling 100%.

How to identify employees in distress

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