Managers deal with health problems on a regular basis. While they are usually confident in dealing with issues with physical health, they may be less sure of how best to approach mental health problems. But, in principle, it should be fairly similar: it’s about focusing on how they can best support a team member to get back to work and/or to perform at their best.
This guide from Acas gives an overview of the whole subject, tips and advice, and a lot of links to further resources, guidance and sources of help. It covers:
The role of a manager
Spotting the signs of a mental health problem
Encouraging staff to develop their own Wellness Action PlansGuides to wellness action plansWeb page
Wellness action plans are an easy way to help support your own mental health at work and that of your team members. Mind has guidance and templates to get you started, for both employees and line managers.FreeSign up to receive by e-mail
By: MindView resource
Talking to a team member who may be experiencing a mental health problem
Managing a team member who may feel unable to talk
Supporting a team member during periods of poor mental health
Supporting the rest of your team
Approaching absence related to mental health
Helping a team member return to work
Approaching potential disciplinary or capability matters
This guide includes specific advice for managers on supporting a team member with a mental health problem. It outlines legal obligations and reasonable adjustments, as well as advising on managing under-performance and absence.
Every conversation a manager has with a colleague who may be experiencing mental ill health will be different. This PDF guide from Acas has tips for managers to think about when approaching such a conversation.
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