As a manager, it’s important to recognise early signs of stress in your team members, not only to maintain productivity but to support their mental health and well-being. There are certain behavioural and emotional changes can signal that an employee is struggling with stress. Here are key indicators to look out for:
1. Irritability and Mood Changes
One of the first signs of stress is increased irritability or mood swings. Employees who are usually calm and composed may begin reacting more sharply or with frustration to small challenges. They may have shorter tempers, become easily annoyed by colleagues, or express anger in situations where they previously wouldn’t have. These mood changes may start subtly but often become more frequent as stress builds.
2. Withdrawal and Isolation
Stress can lead to social withdrawal. Employees who are typically engaged and collaborative may start isolating themselves, avoiding team meetings or social interactions. They may spend more time alone, stay silent in meetings, or even physically distance themselves from the team. This withdrawal is often a coping mechanism when feeling overwhelmed.
3. Constant Worrying
Another common sign of stress is excessive worrying, even about tasks or situations that would usually be manageable. Employees may become preoccupied with concerns about their performance, deadlines, or minor work-related issues. This heightened state of anxiety can affect decision-making and problem-solving abilities, leaving them feeling stuck or uncertain.
4. Seeking Reassurance
Stress can erode an employee’s confidence, leading them to seek constant reassurance from managers or colleagues. They may repeatedly ask for confirmation about their work or doubt their ability to complete tasks they’ve previously done well. While occasional reassurance is normal, a noticeable increase in this behaviour could be a sign that stress is undermining their self-confidence.
5. Physical Symptoms and Absenteeism
Stress often manifests physically. Employees may report headaches, fatigue, muscle tension, or stomach issues. You might also notice increased absenteeism or requests to leave early, as stress can weaken the immune system and lead to burnout. Frequent sick days or an increase in health complaints may signal that stress is affecting their physical well-being.
Supporting Stressed Employees
Once these signs are recognised, it’s important to take action. Encourage open conversations, provide access to resources such as employee assistance programmes (EAPs), and promote work-life balance to help reduce stress. By being aware of these behavioural and emotional cues, managers can intervene early to create a more supportive, mentally healthy work environment.
