Mental health challenges in the workplace are more common than many realize, with nearly one in five U.S. adults experiencing a mental health condition each year, according to the National Alliance on Mental Illness. Recognizing when a colleague’s well-being is declining can foster a supportive environment and help them access resources. Here are five key signs to watch for, along with practical steps to respond compassionately.
1. Noticeable Changes in Behavior
A coworker who was once outgoing might become withdrawn, or someone typically calm may seem unusually irritable. These shifts in personality or mood—such as snapping at colleagues, avoiding social interactions, or appearing disengaged—can signal emotional distress. For example, a team member who no longer joins casual chats or seems overly sensitive to feedback might be struggling.
A coworker who was once outgoing might become withdrawn, or someone typically calm may seem unusually irritable. These shifts in personality or mood—such as snapping at colleagues, avoiding social interactions, or appearing disengaged—can signal emotional distress. For example, a team member who no longer joins casual chats or seems overly sensitive to feedback might be struggling.
How to Help: Approach them privately with empathy. A simple, nonjudgmental comment like, “I’ve noticed you seem a bit quieter lately—everything okay?” can open the door to a supportive conversation.
2. Declining Work Performance
If a reliable colleague starts missing deadlines, producing sloppy work, or struggling to focus, it could point to mental health challenges. Stress, anxiety, or depression can impair concentration and productivity, leading to errors or incomplete tasks. For instance, a coworker who once excelled in presentations might now seem disorganized or forgetful.
If a reliable colleague starts missing deadlines, producing sloppy work, or struggling to focus, it could point to mental health challenges. Stress, anxiety, or depression can impair concentration and productivity, leading to errors or incomplete tasks. For instance, a coworker who once excelled in presentations might now seem disorganized or forgetful.
How to Help: Offer assistance without prying. You might say, “I’ve noticed you’ve had a lot on your plate—can I help with anything?” This shows support while respecting their privacy.
3. Increased Absenteeism or Tardiness
Frequent sick days, arriving late, or leaving early may indicate more than physical illness. Mental health struggles like depression or burnout can make it hard for someone to face the workday. A pattern of absences, especially if unexplained, could be a red flag.
Frequent sick days, arriving late, or leaving early may indicate more than physical illness. Mental health struggles like depression or burnout can make it hard for someone to face the workday. A pattern of absences, especially if unexplained, could be a red flag.
How to Help: Check in gently, focusing on care rather than confrontation. Try, “I’ve missed seeing you around—hope you’re doing okay.” Encourage them to seek support, such as an Employee Assistance Program (EAP), if available.
4. Physical Signs of Stress
Mental health issues often manifest physically. Look for signs like exhaustion, changes in appetite, or complaints about headaches or insomnia. A coworker who appears constantly fatigued, has lost or gained weight noticeably, or mentions trouble sleeping might be grappling with underlying stress or anxiety.
Mental health issues often manifest physically. Look for signs like exhaustion, changes in appetite, or complaints about headaches or insomnia. A coworker who appears constantly fatigued, has lost or gained weight noticeably, or mentions trouble sleeping might be grappling with underlying stress or anxiety.
How to Help: Express concern kindly, focusing on their well-being. For example, “You’ve seemed really tired lately—have you been able to take some time for yourself?” Suggest small wellness steps, like a quick walk or connecting with a professional.
5. Social Withdrawal
If a coworker stops participating in team activities, skips meetings, or isolates themselves, it could signal emotional struggles. Someone who once enjoyed collaborating but now prefers to work alone or avoids eye contact may be feeling overwhelmed or disconnected.
If a coworker stops participating in team activities, skips meetings, or isolates themselves, it could signal emotional struggles. Someone who once enjoyed collaborating but now prefers to work alone or avoids eye contact may be feeling overwhelmed or disconnected.
How to Help: Invite them to join low-pressure activities, like a coffee break, without pushing. A gentle nudge like, “We’re grabbing lunch today—want to come along?” can help them feel included while respecting their space.
Taking Action with Care
If you notice these signs, approach your coworker with sensitivity and avoid assumptions. Listen actively, validate their feelings, and encourage professional support if needed. Many workplaces offer resources like EAPs, mental health hotlines, or wellness programs. If the situation seems urgent—such as signs of self-harm or severe distress—alert a manager or HR while maintaining confidentiality.
If you notice these signs, approach your coworker with sensitivity and avoid assumptions. Listen actively, validate their feelings, and encourage professional support if needed. Many workplaces offer resources like EAPs, mental health hotlines, or wellness programs. If the situation seems urgent—such as signs of self-harm or severe distress—alert a manager or HR while maintaining confidentiality.
Creating a workplace where mental health is openly supported starts with small, compassionate actions. By staying observant and approachable, you can make a meaningful difference in a coworker’s well-being.
Notes on the Rewrite:
- Length: The rewrite is concise, trimming some of the original’s anecdotal details while preserving all key points.
- Tone: Maintains a professional yet empathetic tone, aligning with the original’s intent to inform and encourage action.
- Structure: Follows the original’s format (intro, five signs with help tips, conclusion) for clarity.
- Content: Includes the NAMI statistic for credibility, rephrases examples and suggestions, and emphasizes practical, respectful responses.