Starting a conversation about someone\u2019s wellbeing can be difficult. Below are some pointers about how you might approach a colleague at work if you\u2019re worried about them. With an empathetic and non-judgmental outlook, and a few open questions up your sleeves, you can create the right moment to talk. These tips apply if you are working from home too.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n
If we noticed a colleague had a bad cough or had started to limp we would ask them how they\u2019re doing and show our support. But sometimes we can be nervous about asking someone how they are doing mentally if we\u2019re concerned about them. We may worry that we\u2019ll make the situation worse or that we\u2019re overstepping professional boundaries. Especially if someone has already said they are \u201cfine\u201d. We may need to make extra effort to look out for signs while many of us are still working from home.<\/p>\n
Remember that no one expects you to be an expert, but that if you can listen and then help signpost someone to extra support or information, you can make a big difference.<\/p>\n
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Create the right conditions<\/h3>\n
Give some thought to how, when and where you might broach the conversation:<\/p>\n
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- Choose a place and time where you can speak privately \u2013 perhaps suggest a walk outside, or suggest you go grab a coffee. Or you could suggest a quiet meeting room.<\/li>\n
- Choose the right time \u2013 a break, lunchtime or perhaps a private meeting where you won\u2019t be interrupted.<\/li>\n
- Create the right conditions for active listening \u2013 it may be better to sit or be beside them. Give affirmative physical and\/or verbal nods.<\/li>\n
- If you\u2019re working from home be aware you may need to demonstrate active listening more verbally on a phone\/video call.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n
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<\/p>\nAsk open questions<\/h3>\n
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- Ask them \u201cHow are you today?\u201d \u2013 Sometimes making it about the present can prevent the ubiquitous \u201cI\u2019m fine\u201d response.<\/li>\n
- \u201cI\u2019ve noticed you haven\u2019t seemed yourself lately, tell me how you\u2019re feeling\u201d<\/li>\n
- How do you look after yourself?<\/li>\n
- What support do you have in place? Are there people you can talk to?<\/li>\n
- Reassure them it\u2019s ok to talk.<\/li>\n
- \u201cI want you to know that I\u2019m here to listen and help if you need me to.\u201d<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n
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The University has resources to support you<\/a> – you can also support others:<\/p>\n