The first thing we need to do is connect. There are multiple methods of connecting, from phone calls, video calls through to texts and emails.
There are two ways that an initial connection occurs:
A colleague engages with you:
Your colleagues could directly approach you about their mental health. This is a direct way of them asking for support. This is relatively uncommon.
What is more common, is a colleague will drop a hint that something isn’t quite right.
- ‘I’m feeling a touch off’
- ‘I’m fed up with everything’
- ‘I’ve had it up to here’
Encourage your colleague to elaborate and open up about how they’re feeling.
You engage with a colleague:
- When to approach: Look to approach a colleague when they are showing any of the warning signs previously stated or they don’t seem themselves.
- Where to approach: Because of the current situation, it is most likely you will be speaking to them via a device.
- How to approach: Be direct, but not forceful. Demonstrate concern and empathy for your colleague.
