Good to Talk · Helping a mate · Free. Always.
When somebody at work isn't themselves
If you or someone else is in immediate danger, call 999 or go to A&E. If you need urgent mental-health help but it is not an emergency, in England call NHS 111 and select the mental-health option or use NHS 111 online where appropriate.
You do not need to be their manager to ask if they are okay.
Find a private moment
Mention what you have noticed rather than speculating about a diagnosis. “You've seemed really under pressure lately — how are you doing?”
Know workplace routes
Depending on the employer, occupational health, an Employee Assistance Programme, HR, a manager or mental-health first aider may be available.
Safety outranks workplace awkwardness
If somebody appears to be at immediate risk, seek urgent professional help rather than treating it only as an HR matter.
Useful next pages
Trusted help & further reading
- NHS — where to get urgent help for mental health
- NHS Every Mind Matters — helping others
- Samaritans — if you're worried about someone else
This section is practical guidance, not emergency or clinical care. If somebody's safety is at immediate risk, use emergency services.