Possible Functional Impacts in the Workplace

By Tasha Broomhall

This list is not exhaustive and equally, for some individuals, there will be no functional impacts in the workplace. It is also important to note that the impacts shown below may be present yet have nothing to do with mental health issues. They may be related to other work or life circumstances.

If you notice any of these possible indicators and you are concerned about an employee, be careful not to assume that they are experiencing a mental health issue. Instead have a conversation with the employee about what you have observed.

These indicators in themselves do not mean that an employee is experiencing mental health issues. It is when the symptoms are pervasive, long lasting and are affecting the employee’s functioning that it may have more impact. If signs are observed and are of concern these can be appropriately addressed with the employee, and assistance may be needed to prevent the issue developing further. Seek support from your Human Resource or Safety team, as well as from an employee counselling service your organisation contracts.

FUNCTIONAL IMPACTS

Lack of focus Erratic

Difficulty making decisions

Task overdrive

Avoidance of work

Accidents (not following safety protocols)

Lack of concentration

Reduced productivity

Absenteeism

SOCIAL IMPACTS

Not engaging with others Social withdrawal

Discord with colleagues

Unapproachable

Micromanaging other staff members

Unusually argumentative

Morale issues

Seeking extra support

PERSONAL IMPACTS

No confidence in areas where they previously have been confident

Focused internally

Need to control/ be perfect

Excessively tired

Overly reactive emotionally

Very over-confident

Physical signs such as headaches

Increased substance use

This is an edited extract from the book Bloom! At Work, written by Tasha Broomhall.

The book is available for purchase at www.bloomingminds.com.au/shop.