What is: Early Intervention for Psychological Injuries

Protecting the mental health of staff

A work-related psychological or psychiatric injury can significantly affect an employee’s life, both at home and at work. It can also affect the workplace generally. It’s important that you intervene early when you notice an employee is at risk.

Why is this important and what’s my role?

If employees aren’t coping in the workplace and show signs of psychological distress, you need to intervene early to avoid further injury and to help them access support.

What do I need to do?

Learn to recognise early warning signs

Signs that an employee may be struggling with their psychological health include:

emotional responses and erratic behaviour
disengagement and low morale
withdrawn behaviour
poor work performance
more unplanned absences
negative language and workplace conflict
tiredness and headaches
difficulty sleeping.

Initiate a conversation and offer support

If you notice these warning signs, show empathy and concern and give the employee an opportunity to discuss their health or other concerns privately.

Offer appropriate support, such as flexible work options or a mentor.

If the employee takes unplanned leave, contact them to discuss the reason for their absence and check they’re OK.

If the employee takes extended time off, stay in contact. Meet with them when they’re back at work. Update them on what’s happened in their absence. Make them feel welcome and check how they’re going.

Refer to support services

If appropriate, refer the employee to the Employee Assistance Service (provided by Telus Health)
If you feel unable to provide positive support, seek advice from Human Resources.