As a manager, it’s your job to watch for signs of stress on your team so that you can intervene before someone disengages, gets sick, or needs to take a leave. Keep an eye out for the warning signs: Does someone on your team seem overly tired or constantly overwhelmed? Have they been unable to control their emotions lately? Of course, everyone has good and bad days, but most people can regulate their emotions in a way that’s appropriate for the workplace. Outbursts or high and low mood swings can be a sign of stress overload. If you notice any of these signs, start a conversation with the person. You might ask a simple question, such as “Are you OK?” or “How are you doing?” And if the person is open to talking, mention the signs you’ve observed and express your concern.
Adapted from "An Early Warning System for Your Team's Stress Level," by Thomas Hellwig et al.
