Spotting a struggling team member

Often, the signs that someone is struggling show up quietly, a change in tone, a missed deadline, a person who used to laugh easily and now does not. Noticing early can make a real difference.

What it is

Spotting a struggling team member means noticing changes in someone's behaviour, mood, performance or engagement that may signal they are going through a difficult time. This does not mean diagnosing what is wrong, it means paying attention and responding with care. Struggles can stem from many sources, workload, personal life, grief, financial stress, or mental health difficulties, and often show up before someone feels ready to talk about them.

Signs to notice

• A noticeable change in mood, energy or usual personality, such as increased irritability, withdrawal or flatness.
• Declining performance, missed deadlines or increased errors from someone who was previously consistent.
• Increased absenteeism, lateness, or leaving work suddenly.
• Withdrawing from colleagues, meetings or usual social interaction at work.
• Visible signs of exhaustion, tearfulness, or difficulty concentrating.
• Comments that suggest hopelessness, feeling overwhelmed, or "not coping".

What helps

• Trust your observations, you do not need proof, a gentle check-in is always appropriate.
• Approach the person privately and with genuine care, rather than raising concerns in front of others.
• Focus on specific, observed changes rather than assumptions, such as "I've noticed you've seemed quieter lately".
• Listen more than you speak, and avoid jumping to solutions too quickly.
• Let the person know support is available, including Cleared Mind's EAP, without pressuring them to use it.
• Follow up after the initial conversation, ongoing care matters more than a single check-in.
• If someone mentions feeling hopeless, overwhelmed to the point of not coping, or unsafe, take it seriously and encourage them to seek help immediately.

When to reach out for help

If a team member shows signs of severe distress, mentions thoughts of self-harm or feeling unsafe, or if you are worried about their immediate safety, encourage them to seek urgent professional support and let them know they do not have to face it alone.

Getting help in South Africa

Cleared Mind's EAP counsellors are available to support both employees and managers navigating these situations. SADAG's Mental Health Line, 011 234 4837, offers guidance for supporting someone in distress.

---

If you or someone else is in immediate danger, reach out now. SADAG Suicide Crisis Helpline (24h): 0800 567 567 or SMS 31393. SAPS 10111, ambulance 10177, GBV Command Centre 0800 428 428.