10 Signs Your Employee Is Struggling With Their Mental Health & 10 Ways To Support Them
10 Signs Your Employee Is Struggling With Their Mental Health & 10 Ways To Support Them
Are You Willing to Improve Work-Life Balance?
In a world driven by numbers and productivity, it’s not always easy to spot which employees need a helping hand. That’s okay—come with us as we explore key indicators of a struggling employee and a few ways you can help.
1. Decreased Productivity
Struggling employees may find it hard to keep their heads above water—and that means decreased productivity or missed deadlines. If you notice that one of your employees keeps handing in their projects late or can’t keep up with demand, it might be a sign they’re going through something behind closed doors.
Photo By: Kaboompics.com on Pexels
2. Avoiding Staff Events
Some employees might lose interest in their hobbies, like spending time with co-workers. You may notice that they make excuses or leave early, and either can indicate a decline in mental health.
3. They’re Easily Stressed
We’ve all been stressed on the job, but there’s a difference between crunch time and crying at your desk. The important thing to remember is that stress manifests in different ways. Some employees may lose their temper. Others might distance themselves. However it looks, you’ll likely recognize abnormal behavior.
4. They Ask for More Time Off
Most people can indulge in a few weeks’ vacation—but burned-out employees may ask for more and more days. If you notice that they’re gone at least once a week or frequently ask to go home early, it could be a sign that they need a significant break.
5. Drastic Change in Appearance
Employees understand the importance of their appearance. From appropriate work attire to proper hygiene, a place of business thrives with well-kept staff. However, hygiene can suffer in more severe cases, and it’s often a big sign that someone is struggling.
6. Unexplained Absences
In addition to asking for more time off, some employees may drop off the radar completely. Unattended social events, missed meetings, and unexplained absences can all signal that an employee is having a hard time.
7. Difficulty Focusing
Mental illness can zap a person’s focus, which makes it harder to concentrate. As an employer, keep an eye out for frequent mistakes or little slip-ups as they often indicate something more serious.
8. Uncharacteristic Behavior
It’s not always easy to tell when an employee’s behavior is out of character, especially if you haven’t worked together for very long. However, most employers notice drastic mood swings or a decline in productivity. If you spot any sweeping changes, it might be time to speak with your employee.
9. Heightened Anxiety
Has an employee started to apologize more often? Do they get paranoid about coworkers? Are they more frustrated with their performance? These are all key symptoms of anxiety in the workplace, and they’re worth paying attention to.
10. Low Energy
Low energy looks different across the board, but there are some common symptoms to watch for. Listen when employees complain about frequent headaches. Pay attention to their productivity and work quality. Chronic fatigue is a big sign of mental exhaustion.
The good news is that employers can take proper steps to help struggling employees. Let’s dive into a few ways you can make the workplace a little brighter.
1. A Healthy Work-Life Balance
One of the biggest stressors for employees is their work-life balance. Whether it’s emails after hours or excessive work with no reward, good managers don't cross the line. Paid time off, encouraging employees to take breaks, and respecting work hours are all good places to start for a better workplace.
LinkedIn Sales Solutions on Unsplash
2. Offer Support
Not every employee is comfortable talking about their mental health. However, you can still leave the door open or offer support so they know they’re in a safe environment. While you don’t need to—and shouldn’t—pry, you can still let them know that you’re willing to hear them out.
3. Flexible Work Options
Employees don't always need to work in the office. Flexibility like full-time remote work or rotating schedules can take some pressure off their shoulders. Remote work alleviates a lot of stress caused by commuting or interacting with others.
4. Properly Trained Management
Management should all be on the same page about mental health protocols. The last thing employees need is an unkind word or misinformed “strategies” that only make them feel worse. Good employers keep everyone in the loop to ensure the best path forward.
5. Listen to Employees
Sometimes the best thing you can do is listen to your employees. Mental health looks different for everyone, so let people know they can work with you to help find success. Active listening also signals to employees that they’re in a caring workspace.
6. Consider New Benefits Packages
Benefits packages cover basics like eye care or dentistry, but they should also include mental health resources. Allocating funds for therapy takes the pressure off your employees; they won’t have to pay for expensive sessions out of pocket—especially if they require a certain kind of therapy.
7. Host Employee Surveys
Employee surveys are an insightful, anonymous way to garner feedback. You’ll learn about areas for improvement and can take the necessary steps to improve the workplace. They’re also a great way to gauge a strategy’s success down the line.
8. Offer Added Benefits
Health benefits extend beyond employee packages. Anything from ergonomic office chairs to healthy food options in the break room can make the workplace that much brighter. Even having a quiet room designated for alone time works wonders.
9. Encourage Virtual Hangouts
Not every employee enjoys in-person hangouts—some prefer the comfort of their own home. Virtual meetings are just as fun! You can host game nights or trivia time. You can even host workout classes. Either way, it’s all about inclusive engagement.
10. Remain Respectful
It’s not an employer’s job to act like a therapist. However, it is their job to promote a healthy work environment that doesn’t cause undue stress. Take the steps to improve work-life balance without donning the role of a health care provider.
KEEP ON READING
