MINDSET The KBR Link Mental Health Spotlight
Making the Tough Call
A Beginner’s Guide to Supporting Colleagues During Stressful Times
Contributor: Ashley Owens, Senior HSSE Specialist
Think of a time when you were stressed, sad, lonely or frustrated. How did you expect people around you to behave? Did a simple “How are you?” change your day, week or month?
There’s a good chance that even if you weren’t in the mood to talk at that moment you will remember that person reached out. You may even follow up with them later or think of them as a safe space for future conversations.
When we see others experiencing stress or struggles, a kind word may help them feel seen and supported without feeling pressured or judged.
One of the key things to remember about stress or being “in a tough spot” is that the body and mind will signal when someone needs to slow down. The amount or cause of stress doesn’t matter. There isn’t a one-to-one comparison for people’s stress levels. Someone’s high tolerance doesn’t negate someone else’s struggle. If you notice the following signs or symptoms for yourself, your body might be telling you that you are in that tough spot and need to address it.
Strong, unexplained emotions
These could be anger, agitation, anxiety or sadness. If you can’t identify the cause of the emotion, pause if you’re able and reflect. What are your mind and body trying to communicate to you?
Recurring forgetfulness, procrastination or work obsession
If you’re unable to focus or switch focus, it may mean your mind needs to process something.
Trouble eating or sleeping, or experiencing prolonged physical tension
Listen to your body. Stress, trauma, burnout — these can all manifest as physical symptoms.
How can we help colleagues or someone close to us if they’re experiencing one or more of those signals? The first thing is to be nonjudgmental and to make them feel safe. Then you can ask yourself three quick questions to decide how or if you can help.
Am I in a safe physical and mental space to speak with that person?
Can you give them the time, attention and privacy they need? If not, set up a chat for a later time, or help direct them to a different resource if possible.
How can I be present while speaking with that person?
You can make eye contact, give verbal clues, ask questions and let them tell their story.
Does the person want solutions or just a listening ear?
Ask them! Knowing what they need sets you both up for success and shows them that you’re someone who cares about what they want and need.
We all experience stress, traumatic events, uncertainty and hard times throughout life. That’s all part of the human experience, just as much as joy, connection, love and adventure are! Sometimes, however, the hard times can get too hard. An individual may express intent to harm themselves or take their life. If someone shares that with you, you can contact your local emergency services. For nonemergency situations, you may reach out to your local KBR Mental Health First Aider, who is trained in recognizing and responding during moments of duress.
Contributor: Ashely Owens, Senior HSSE Specialist
Do
· Ask questions to show you’re engaged.
· Restate what you’ve heard or use verbal prompts like “I see” to check or convey your understanding.
· Be patient if the person is struggling to communicate.
· Connect them with other resources or someone else who can listen.
Don’t
· Don’t try to regulate your discomfort by trying to change the mood or circumstances. Just be present.
· Don’t interrupt them while they’re speaking.
· Don’t think that you have to say or do anything to “fix” their emotions. You don’t need to have magic words to make their problems go away.
At KBR, we ensure help is always on hand when required.
