Manager and supervisors often see it all and notice when an employee’s emotional state is declining. There are many signs and symptoms of mental distress, ranging from increased mistakes, lowered productivity, a change in personality, difficulty with memory, or ineffective use of time. As a manager, the best thing you can do is to voice your concern.
Let the employee know that you are concerned and provide specific examples of what you have noticed.
1. Listen carefully and show empathy.
2. Don’t try to diagnose the program.
3. Encourage the employee to contact the EAP.
4. Call ahead to the EAP to share your concerns and to alert us that one of your employees may be calling.
5. Check in with employee to let him know you’re interested in his progress.
As EAP professionals, we always advise managers and supervisors to alert Human Resources about your concerns. HR might have additional information and other ideas about how to help.
Have you voiced your concerns lately?
