Signs an employee is struggling with their mental health

By Ben, the automotive industry charity

We’re currently living through challenging times and, at Ben, we’re seeing more and more of our automotive family turning to us for support.

Employees who are struggling with their mental health may not feel comfortable opening up to their line manager or employer so it isn’t always obvious who needs support. This is why we’ve put together some of the warning signs that managers and employers can look out for so that relevant support can be provided:

Changes in mood

Stress can sometimes cause normally mild-mannered individuals to begin snapping at their colleagues or an extrovert to suddenly retreat from social interaction. If someone seems more short-tempered, tearful or quiet than usual, keep an eye on them and ask them if they want to talk.

Absenteeism and timekeeping

A noticeable increase in sick days may be a sign that your employee is struggling. You may also notice someone taking longer lunch breaks or arriving to work late.

Changes in productivity

When someone is stressed or distracted by mental health issues, they may make uncharacteristic errors, miss deadlines and find it hard to concentrate.

Weight or appetite changes

Significant changes in someone’s weight (rapid weight gain or loss) or different eating habits (eating significantly less or more) can indicate a mental health issue.

Sleeplessness

If you notice a colleague looks tired, lethargic or worn out on a regular basis, it could be a sign that they aren’t sleeping well, which could be down to stress and their mental health.

Appearance and personal hygiene

You may notice changes in appearance and personal hygiene e.g. body odour, looking unkempt, not looking after themselves and wearing the same clothes for longer periods.

Share our contact details & support

If you notice that an employee is struggling, you could take them aside and ask if they are OK. Let them know that Ben is here for the automotive industry community, day or night, 24/7. Our support is free & confidential.

Call – 08081 311 333
Email – supportservices@ben.org.uk
Chat online – www.ben.org.uk

Ben also operates an out-of-hours text support service. To access this service, text BEN to 85258. 

There’s also lots of online mental health support available here: www.ben.org.uk/mentalhealth 

We also provide health & wellbeing tips via email: www.ben.org.uk/signup.