How can you support colleagues dealing with stress in the workplace?

1 Listen empathetically

One of the simplest and most effective ways to support your colleagues is to listen to them with empathy and compassion. Sometimes, people just need a safe and non-judgmental space to vent their frustrations and emotions. You can offer your ear and your attention, without interrupting, criticizing, or giving unsolicited advice. You can also acknowledge their feelings and validate their perspective, without agreeing or disagreeing with them. For example, you can say something like "I hear you, that sounds really stressful" or "I can understand why you feel that way".

2 Share resources and referrals

Another way to support your colleagues is to share some helpful resources and referrals that can help them manage their stress. For example, you can inform them about the employee assistance program (EAP) that your organization offers, which may provide counseling, coaching, or other wellness services. You can also recommend some online tools or apps that can help them practice mindfulness, relaxation, or self-care. You can also suggest some local or community organizations that can provide support for specific issues, such as financial, legal, or mental health.

3 Offer practical assistance

Sometimes, your colleagues may need more than emotional support. They may also need some practical assistance to reduce their stress and cope with their challenges. As an administrative assistant, you may have some skills or expertise that can help them with their tasks or projects. For example, you can offer to help them with organizing, scheduling, prioritizing, or delegating their work. You can also help them with some administrative or technical issues that may be causing them stress, such as using a software, filling a form, or contacting a client.

4 Encourage positive habits

Another way to support your colleagues is to encourage them to adopt some positive habits that can improve their well-being and resilience. For example, you can invite them to join you for a walk, a coffee break, or a lunch, and use that time to socialize and relax. You can also encourage them to take regular breaks, set boundaries, and avoid overcommitting themselves. You can also model some healthy behaviors yourself, such as eating well, sleeping enough, and exercising regularly.

5 Respect their preferences

Finally, it is important to respect your colleagues' preferences and boundaries when you try to support them. Not everyone may want or need the same type of support, and some may prefer to deal with their stress privately or in their own way. You should not force your help or advice on them, or make them feel guilty or ashamed for being stressed. You should also respect their confidentiality and privacy, and not share their personal or professional issues with others. You should also check in with them periodically, but not too frequently or intrusively.

6 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?