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When is self-care not enough, and how do we help someone get professional help?

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Last updated 10 November 2026

Someone is strugglingFor Managers, Peer Supporters

Need help now? Call 1771 (national mindline) · 1767 (Samaritans of Singapore) · Danger to life 995

In short

When distress lasts despite rest, or starts to affect someone’s work and relationships, self-care alone is not enough. Encourage them to talk to a doctor or counsellor, and make the routes to help clear and easy to use.

Self-care such as breaks, sleep and exercise helps with everyday stress. It is not a substitute for professional help when problems persist.

What to do

  1. Know the signs that more help is needed Distress that does not improve with rest, difficulty concentrating or making decisions, feeling overwhelmed, anxious or numb most of the time, and withdrawing from colleagues.
  2. Raise it gently and privately Say what you have noticed, and ask how they are.
  3. Say clearly that asking for help is the right thing to do Many people see it as weakness and wait too long.
  4. Make the routes clear Share your EAP details, suggest seeing a GP and mention national mindline 1771. Offer to help them make the first call.
  5. Follow up a few days later, and keep checking in.

Watch out for

  • Do not suggest more self-care to someone who is already struggling. It can feel like being told the problem is their fault.
  • If you are worried about suicide, ask directly and get help together (see What do I do when a colleague is struggling?).

Good to know

Organisations can make help easier to find by putting EAP and helpline details where staff already look, such as the intranet, team chats and payslips, and by reminding staff regularly.

Discover more

CourseSelf-Care for Sustainable Well-beingSee dates and fees on Wayfinder →CourseFoundational Psychological First AidFully funded for 2 places per organisation while places lastSee dates and fees on Wayfinder →

Kaleidoscope Labs manages the Network and provides some of these courses and workshops for a fee.

Read more

ArticleWhen Self-Care Is Not Enough: Knowing When to Seek SupportRelated questionWhat do I do when a colleague is struggling?Related questionAn employee is coming back after mental health-related leave. How do we plan their return?

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Next in Someone is struggling →How can we support staff caring for children and ageing parents?

See all questions. This is general guidance, not legal or clinical advice. Can’t find your answer? Email hello@wellbeingchampions.sg.