When stress needs extra help

Work pressure and personal strain sometimes exceed what informal support can manage. Staff should recognise when to seek extra help and how to do so.

When to seek support

Seek extra help if stress affects sleep, mood, physical health, relationships, concentration, attendance or safety. It may also be needed after a traumatic contact, a violent incident, a bereavement disclosure or repeated exposure to abuse.

Getting help early can prevent worsening and allows the practice to consider temporary adjustments, workload changes or health support.

Possible support routes

• Line manager: discuss workload, rota, duties, breaks and reasonable adjustments.
• Occupational health or employee assistance: where these are provided by the employer.
• GP or health professional: if personal health is affected.
• Urgent help: if someone may harm themselves or cannot stay safe.

Know the difference between tired and unsafe

Tiring days are normal, but persistent exhaustion, dread, repeated mistakes, panic, low mood or thoughts of harm require more than rest. Staff should be able to access support without stigma, and managers should respond with practical care.

Use more than one support route

Workload adjustments, manager support, occupational health, peer support and personal healthcare can each help. A safe response may involve several routes rather than a single conversation.

Asking for support is a safety action, not a sign that someone is unsuitable for the role.

Crisis support