Tips for specific workplace situations
My employee indicates they have a mental illness
- Treat as would for physical injury:
- Are there any impacts at work
- What are reasonable accommodations? How can work support rehabilitation.
- Set up review periods to achieve full RTW/ open door if not coping
- Clarify what (if anything) the employee wished to be disclosed to peers to account for reasonable accommodations.
During performance management it is identified that person has a mental illness that is impacting performance
- Identify reasonable accommodations based on capacity
- Agree on temporary performance targets based on capacity for period of reasonable accommodations (these may be progressed as condition improves)- will require medical advice.
- Employee is required to seek reasonable treatment to address (can refer to EAP)
- Once condition resolves (based on medical advice) resume performance management as appropriate.
The employee breaks down in front of me during a discussion
- Reassure them:
|
- Ask if they would like someone of their choice with them
- Try to be sensitive to the level of information the individual can cope with; in the midst of a crisis they may not be able to think clearly and accept complex information.
- Remember try to remain calm yourself!
Critical Incidents
In the unfortunate event that an employee has threatened or attempted harm to themselves or others, there is a need to respond to the situation immediately. Below are the steps required to be taken during a Critical Incident.
What to do if someone threatens suicide?
Tips for leaders when interacting with a suicidal person
- Be direct. Talk openly and matter-of-factly about suicide.
- Be willing to listen. Allow expressions of feelings. Accept the feelings.
- Be non-judgmental. Don't debate whether suicide is right or wrong, or whether feelings are good or bad. Don't lecture on the value of life.
- Get involved. Become available. Show interest and support.
- Don't dare him or her to do it.
- Don't be sworn to secrecy. Seek support.
- Offer hope that alternatives are available but do not offer glib reassurance.
- Take action. Remove means.
More information
More on keeping your team well
- What is mental health?
- What is workplace stress?
- Tips for leaders
- What is mental illness?
- Dealing with mental illness
- Myths around mental illness
