In these challenging times, it’s important for managers and employers in the automotive industry to recognise signs of mental health struggles in employees. Ben, the automotive industry charity, provides some key indicators to watch out for.
We’re currently living through challenging times, and Ben, the automotive charity, is seeing more and more of the automotive family turning to them for support.
Employees who are struggling with their mental health may not feel comfortable opening up to their line manager or employer, so it isn’t always obvious who needs support. This is why Ben has put together some of the warning signs that managers and employers can look out for so that relevant support can be provided.
Changes in mood
Stress can sometimes cause normally mild-mannered individuals to begin snapping at their colleagues or an extrovert to suddenly retreat from social interaction. If someone seems more short-tempered, tearful or quiet than usual, keep an eye on them and ask them if they want to talk.
Absenteeism and timekeeping
A noticeable increase in sick days may be a sign that your employee is struggling. You may also notice someone taking longer lunch breaks or arriving to work late.
Changes in productivity
When someone is stressed or distracted by mental health issues, they may make uncharacteristic errors, miss deadlines and find it hard to concentrate.
Weight or appetite changes
Significant changes in someone’s weight (rapid weight gain or loss) or different eating habits (eating significantly less or more) can indicate a mental health issue.
Sleeplessness
If you notice a colleague looks tired, lethargic or worn out on a regular basis, it could be a sign that they aren’t sleeping well, which could be down to stress and their mental health.
Appearance and personal hygiene
You may notice changes in appearance and personal hygiene, e.g. body odour, looking unkempt, not looking after themselves and wearing the same clothes for longer periods.
Share our contact details & support
If you notice that an employee is struggling, you could take them aside and ask if they are OK. Let them know that Ben is here for the automotive industry community, day or night, 24/7. Our support is free & confidential.
Call – 08081 311 333
Email – supportservices@ben.org.uk
Chat online – www.ben.org.uk
To find out more about the services Ben provides, visit: www.ben.org.uk/gethelp
Ben also operates an out-of-hours text support service. To access this service, text BEN to 85258.
There’s also lots of online mental health support available here: www.ben.org.uk/mentalhealth
Ben also provides health & wellbeing tips via email: www.ben.org.uk/signup
To find out more about how Ben can support your organisation and the health and wellbeing of your employees, contact Rachel Clift, Health & Wellbeing Director at Ben: Rachel.Clift@ben.org.uk.
