What do you do if a colleague is showing signs of burnout and needs support?

During my time I have worked with many amazing people who have given more than their all to the job. Working long hours delivery well above expected. Many of which faced burnout. In these cases I noticed as and reached out to them taking them for a casual chat away from the environment. Talking with them about how things are going. During the chat I would offer myself to take some of the load or to find someone else to off load things to. Reminding them success is a long game and while not directly doing it they will still be recognised for it. Giving them the time and ear while sharing you them that I am available day and night to help, even at time suggesting how I can help them from getting burnt out.

within one of my experiences when a colleague is displaying signs of burnout in our Change Management journey, I prioritize their well-being and offer support. Firstly, actively listening to their concerns without judgment. Then, I encourage open dialogue to understand their specific challenges and collaborate on feasible solutions. Utilizing agile principles, we may adjust workloads, redistribute tasks, or provide additional resources to alleviate pressure. Additionally, I emphasize the importance of self-care and offer guidance on managing stress effectively. By fostering a supportive environment and promoting a culture of resilience, we empower colleagues to navigate change with strength and adaptability.

Écoute et Communication: Encouragez votre collègue à parler de ses sentiments et de ses préoccupations. Montrez-vous empathique et compréhensif, et évitez de juger ou de minimiser ses sentiments. Offrez votre soutien et suggérez-lui de parler à un professionnel de la santé mentale ou à un conseiller en ressources humaines

Aide pratique: Si possible, aidez votre collègue à réduire sa charge de travail en prenant en charge certaines de ses tâches ou en l'aidant à prioriser ses responsabilités. Vous pouvez également l'encourager à prendre des pauses régulières et à pratiquer des activités de détente et de bien-être, comme la méditation, le yoga ou l'exercice physique.

When I see people in the office or online before me and then also after me I reach out to them to see how they are. Asking them what they are doing and how often they step away from the desk. Sharing with them to take micro breaks, actively plan for times to take a walk or go to the gym. Disconnecting from the stress of work and giving the body a chance to recover and heal. Sharing the benefits that are created by focusing on personal health and mental wellness. I also try to be the role model by keeping active physically and mentally with activities that keep the body and mind clear and focused for being the best I can. Several times I have invited them out for walks or a gym session to break the routine of work. It pays back double.

My takes: burnout may not necessarily be because of work, it can be due to multiple factors including work, co-workers, personal responsibilities, not understanding the KPI’s and expectations from uplines/managers. In my opinion need to have a compassionate and empathetic attitude and have open dialogue with them and offer your support as a leader. Once employees have your support and confidence, the real issues causing burnout can be addressed & effectively rectified. #opencommunication, #compassion #empathy

When we work too much and think longer hours makes for better results, I share how others can be more productive in setting boundaries and guard rails on work, family and personal time. We often sacrifice all for work when in fact we are best when we have the balance. Work will always be there to complete that is why we are hired. Yet missing the school play or Birthday, ditching the gym and lunch breaks only drain the cup of ability and positive memories. Life and career are long games so being actively mindful to ensure you are there present and in the moment will reduce the factors of burnout.

Soutien organisationnel: Si vous êtes en mesure de le faire, parlez à votre supérieur hiérarchique ou aux ressources humaines de la situation de votre collègue. Ils peuvent être en mesure de fournir des ressources supplémentaires, telles qu'un congé de maladie, un aménagement du temps de travail ou un soutien en matière de santé mentale. Il est important de respecter la confidentialité de votre collègue et de ne pas divulguer ses informations personnelles sans son consentement.

To the points addressed in this article, I would like to add the analysis of whether we are facing a situation that can be solved, or at least alleviated, with the acquisition of new skills or knowledge. It is interesting to analyze whether improved time management skills, resource planning, or new digital abilities can help the individual find a way to manage her/his work and responsibilities from a new and more satisfying way.