As we keep an eye out for each other we may notice a change in their behaviour or mood indicating they’re not feeling themselves.
This behaviour might include being snappy, withdrawn, negative attitude, tired, hyper, coming in late or working extra hours - possibly avoiding going home, dealing with financial worries or overstretched.
So how can we approach someone we think is not feeling themselves
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Let them know you are thinking of them
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regular texts or calls
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If it’s a colleague arrange a catch-up. It’s best to approach via a text or email to give them space and make the catch up somewhere private
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Go for a walk or a drive. There’s less pressure as not sitting face to face and helps someone open up.
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Empathise and share your own experiences – helps open up and build trust.
You can start with something like “it’s been a rough year for everyone, I know I’ve found it hard. How are things going for you?”
- Don’t judge
- Listen – we naturally want to fix, but sometimes letting someone just talk out loud is letting them fix things in their minds and start making a plan
- Ask if they have support
- Be there – just sitting together is huge
- Suggest they call 1737 or EAP
- Help book professional appointment or take them there if need be – remember if someone is very stressed or depressed even calling strangers is a big deal
- Debrief – you too can call 1737 for this. It’s important to reset ourselves after hearing some tough things.
