Chamber HR : International Mens Day
November 19th was #internationalmensday. We often talk about the fact that men don’t discuss their problems – so how do you support someone who may be struggling?
Notice that there is something different about them
Show concern for them – ask if they want to talk
Make time for the discussion
Think about where to have the discussion – getting outside can sometimes be helpful – it’s less formal
Put everything you are dealing with on hold – this is a priority
Listen – focus on what they are saying – we normally listen to respond, not to hear
What are they saying? What are they not saying?
Don’t try and solve their issues – just listen
Recognise that they may only be telling you part of the story
Empathise, recognise that this is difficult for them
Don’t pretend to know how they feel
Don’t talk about your own experiences and challenges - that makes it about you, not them
Help them to identify what support they have – family, friends, work, GP, community and voluntary organisations
Give them choices – don’t tell them what to do
What else can they do for themselves – healthy eating, plenty of sleep, fresh air and exercise, talking, trying to reduce the use of drugs, alcohol, smoking etc
If you would like to find out more about #employeewellbeing or #mentalhealthfirstaid, please get in touch with Chamber management group member, Sarah Darbyshire of HR Solutions Yorkshire – who offers HR Consultancy services and Mental Health First Aid training - telephone 01937 591577 or 07495 857525 or email sarah@hrsolutionsyorkshire.co.uk
