How to know if a colleague is mentally ill

 

For most of organizations a normal productive day usually begins at 8 am and ends 5 PM. This translates to about eight hours of work every day, and 40 cumulatively for the five days in a week. During that time we are expected to function optimally and play a productive role in the organization's where we work. In addition, employees are entitled to an annual working leave of 21 days per year but there are specific factors, not work related, that may lead to absenteeism from work. Absenteeism from work, without any form of prior communication is usually the biggest indicator of something amiss. This absenteeism contributes to poor work quality and compromised productivity. Employers definitely have a reason to be concerned if any of these unexplained absences from work begin to manifest chronically. Mere assumption, as has been proved over and over, may just make matters worse. How then, apart from absenteeism, do you tell if a colleague is not functioning to the best mentally? The following signs may indicate mental health problems: 

- Having difficulty working and cooperating with colleagues

- Problems with memory, decision-making and concentration

- Frequent late arrival

- Tiredness and general malaise

- Anger and blame directed at co-workers

- Decreased productivity/poor performance

- Inaccuracy and lack of attention to safety

- Lack of interest in work

- Working a lot of extra hours

- Confused logic and expressing strange ideas

These changes could indicate one of the following disorders:

- Depression

- Bipolar Disorder

- Anxiety Disorder

- Attention Deficit Hyperactive Disorder (ADHD)

If an employer/supervisor/guardian/friend suspects that a collegue has mental health problems they have a responsibility to take action as quickly as possible.There is hope since most mental health problems can be managed and individuals can lead productive lives.