Five ways to show your support for colleagues struggling with their mental health

We see more of our colleagues than we do our own family in most cases, and as many of us know, mental health challenges can affect anyone, at any time. So, it makes sense that the workplace is no exception. 

We never know what’s going on behind closed doors and many of our colleagues could be suffering with stress, anxiety, depression or personal crisis. In such cases, a supportive colleague can make all the difference, be a shoulder to cry on, help them feel valued, or even provide help in seeking professional help, whether that be through counselling, medical treatment, or even things like residential rehab and addiction treatment centres, all dependent on the circumstances.

If you think a colleague is struggling, or you have been made aware they are, then showing your support can be really helpful to them, and there are many ways in which you can do that…

Start with a Simple Conversation

One of the most powerful things you can do is to check in. A quiet, “How are you doing, really?” asked with sincerity can go a long way. It might feel awkward at first, but showing genuine interest opens the door for someone to share how they’re feeling.

Choose the right time and place, somewhere private and relaxed, and listen without judgement. You don’t need to offer solutions. Just being there and allowing someone to speak freely is a strong act of support. If they don’t want to talk, that’s okay too. Let them know you’re available if they change their mind.

Be Flexible and Understanding

When someone is dealing with mental health issues, their energy and focus may fluctuate. They might need a little more time to complete tasks or may need to work from home more often. If you manage projects or share responsibilities, consider how you can be flexible without putting them on the spot.

Even small gestures, like offering to swap shifts, adjusting deadlines where possible, or being patient if they seem quieter than usual, can show empathy. Flexibility signals that you recognise their humanity, not just their productivity.

Respect Their Privacy and Avoid Gossip

If a colleague shares something personal with you, keep it confidential unless they’re at risk of harm and you need to escalate your concern. Resist the temptation to tell others or speculate. Mental health should be treated with the same discretion and respect as physical health.

Creating a safe, respectful environment also means speaking up if you hear others being dismissive or unkind. Stigma thrives in silence, standing against it helps foster a workplace culture where people feel safer being open.

Signpost to Support Services

If someone confides in you and seems unsure of what to do next, you can gently encourage them to seek professional support. This might include an Employee Assistance Programme (EAP), a GP, or mental health helplines like Samaritans or Mind. Offer to help them look up information or accompany them to HR if appropriate, but don’t pressure them.

It’s important to avoid playing the role of a counsellor yourself. Your role is to support, not to diagnose or advise. Pointing them towards professional help ensures they get the guidance they need.

Create a Supportive Team Culture

Creating a mentally healthy workplace isn’t just about individual conversations, it’s also about building a culture where everyone feels safe and supported. Normalise open discussions about mental health by sharing your own experiences if appropriate, or by acknowledging that everyone has ups and downs.

Celebrate kindness, check in with teammates regularly, and look out for signs that someone may be struggling. Encourage breaks, realistic workloads, and time away from screens. When these values are embedded in a team, people are more likely to feel comfortable reaching out when they need help.