How to support colleagues in challenging life situations

1. Listen and Show Understanding

✅ What to Say?

• “I can imagine this must be really tough for you.”
• “I’m here if you ever want to talk.”
• “Let me know if there’s anything I can do to help.”

❌ What to Avoid?

“You have to stay strong.” (Putting pressure on strength may discourage emotional expression.)

“Don’t worry, it’ll be fine.” (Minimizing the situation can feel dismissive.)

“I’ve been through something similar, and I managed.” (Everyone experiences challenges differently.)

2. Offer Specific Help

✅ What to Say?

• “I can take over some tasks for you if that would help.”
• “Is there anything specific I can do for you? I’d be happy to assist.”
• “If you’d like, we can sit down and talk it through—I’m free at 2 PM today.”

❌ What to Avoid?

“You’ll figure it out on your own.” (Not everyone has the capacity to handle everything alone.)

“We all have problems.” (This minimizes their experience.)

3. Give Space, But Be Available

✅ What to Say?

• “I understand if you don’t feel like talking right now. Just know that I’m here if you ever do.”
• “Would you rather have some quiet time, or would a conversation help?”
• “I don’t want to overwhelm you, but if you need anything, you know where to find me.”

❌ What to Avoid?

“Just focus on work, and it’ll distract you.” (Avoiding emotions doesn’t resolve them.)

“Why are you shutting everyone out?” (People process difficulties in different ways.)

“You should just move on.” (Everyone needs their own time to process emotions.)

4. Remind Them of Available Support

✅ What to Say?

• If a colleague doesn’t share details, don’t push them.
• Avoid asking intrusive questions like, “What exactly happened?”
• Keep confidentiality if someone confides in you.

❌ What to Avoid?

Making judgments like, “I wouldn’t even worry about that—it’s not a big deal.”

Sharing their situation with others without permission.

Pressuring them to explain (“You need to tell me what’s going on.”)

5. Respect Privacy and Boundaries

✅ What to Say?

• “If you ever need professional support, you can access the Employee Assistance Program available to us.”
• “Talking to a specialist might be helpful—you don’t have to go through this alone.”

❌ What to Avoid?

“You’ll be fine without any help.” (Undermining the importance of professional support.)

“You should really go to therapy, you obviously need it.” (This can feel like pressure.)

Even Small Gestures Can Make a Big Difference

5. Even Small Gestures Can Make a Big Difference

When a colleague is facing a difficult time, the goal isn’t to have the perfect words—it’s about showing support, being empathetic, and creating a safe space where they don’t feel alone.
Even a small expression of understanding or a simple offer to help can make a significant impact.

Remember, our Employee Assistance Program (EAP) provides employees with access to professional psychological, legal, financial, and social support. If you know someone who might benefit from these services, consider gently letting them know about this resource.