This way you help someone who is mentally going through it. †

When does someone have a bad day and when does someone experience it mentally? Do you notice that the people around you are not feeling well? Here’s what you can do to help.

There is no one-size-fits-all solution, says Jessica Rits, mental health communications consultant. “People tend to find an answer right away, but when it comes to someone’s mental health, it’s deceptive. If you break your leg, it takes about six weeks. The health of your mind is more complex.”

That’s why personalization is important. But how do you know if someone is just having a bad day or more? “If you’ve known someone for a while, it’s easier to notice whether someone is behaving differently,” says Rits. “For example, if your colleague is very punctual, but falters a few weeks too late.”

It also depends on your relationship with that person, continues Rits. “With a good friend, your salesperson will intervene with the neighbor who occasionally sees you shuffling past your window. In addition, as an employee you may feel that jean jean is not on, Losing.”

As an employer you can keep that in mind.

But as a manager, it is also in your interest that employees do their job and perform well. “So don’t wait too long before starting a conversation or offering help. Before you know it, one has been out of circulation for much longer than necessary. If the bell has rung on time,” he says.

According to psychologist Anita Hubner, there are four things you should keep in mind as an employer:

• Appearance: For example, someone looks different or suddenly appears only while jogging at work, instead of a neat outfit.

• Mode: In the past, someone was always cheerful, but now it is very dark and quiet.

• Behaviour: Someone has always worked very finely, but now you see more and more negligence coming in.

• Thoughts or beliefs: For example, someone may have become suspicious.

Filling in one or more points does not necessarily mean that something is wrong. However, it can be a reason to start the conversation.

“It’s important to do this in as neutral a way as possible,” Hubner says. “Let them know you’re interested in certain things, ask if there’s anything available, and let them know it’s negotiable.”

Do not weaken complaints and give advice

Hubner emphasizes that it is important not to be condescending or to tone down complaints. “Don’t say ‘sometimes I’m tired too’ to someone who has winter blues. So you’re missing the point.”

A depressed person is not only tired, but also suffers from a mood disorder that prevents him from functioning and taking care of himself.

In addition, it is important to take complaints seriously and not to be a replacement for the other person. Keep listening, ask open-ended questions, and keep asking what someone needs.

Do not advise or offer solutions. “You can ask if anyone has an idea what might help, or make suggestions.”

Do not sit in the rescue seat

Rits: “It often happens that someone already has a good idea of ​​what he needs. So give someone a chance to talk about it. It is also important for you as a friend, colleague or employer. does not recommend sitting. It is not your job to solve or diagnose psychological problems.

In addition, Rits believes that people have a tendency to think too big and to be solution-oriented. “But even knowing you’re supported can be very helpful.”

For example, if you think you’re working overtime and you let your employer know that you can work less if you want (if necessary), this can help prevent burnout.