ASSISTING AN EMPLOYEE
When you think an employee may be struggling with a personal concern, but there is no work performance problem, follow these general guidelines. 

Example, you notice an employee weeping at his / her desk.

• Meet privately / allow time.

• Attitude.  Friendly and calm - helps to put you both at ease.

• Language - Begin the meeting by describing what you've observed, not what you think the problem is.  "I noticed you were weeping at your desk this morning."  Don't say, "You look like you're depressed."

• Listen.  If the person does not want to talk about it, respect their wishes.  If the person begins to describe personal issues...

• Show empathy, but don't get overly involved in the story, share your opinion, or try to solve the problem. "I'm very sorry.  You know, any of us can be sad at times and it can help to speak to a professional."

• EAP can help.  "Our EAP is here to help people feel better."  A distressed employee may not remember the EAP.  Have the EAP number handy.

• Restate confidentiality.  Reassure that it is their choice and no one will know unless they say something.

• Don't Require.  The employee may want to think about it.  Don't tell the employee they have to call the EAP.  Note:  If you have a concern for physical safety, then you should call the EAP and consult on how to handle.

• Offer to call.  If employee agrees, dial the EAP #, connect with intake person, then hand the phone over and step out of the room to allow for privacy.