Peer support plays an important role in workplace well-being. Many employees want to check in on colleagues who appear stressed or overwhelmed, yet hesitate out of concern about intruding or saying the wrong thing.

Respectful peer support strikes a balance between care and professionalism — offering presence without pressure.

What a Respectful Check-In Looks Like

Effective check-ins are simple, genuine, and open-ended. They focus on observation rather than assumption, and invitation rather than insistence. Examples include:

• “How are things going for you lately?”
• “I’ve noticed you’ve had a lot on your plate — how are you managing?”
• “Just wanted to check in. Let me know if you’d like support.”

These approaches allow colleagues to engage at their own pace and comfort level.

Letting the Other Person Lead

Once a check-in is offered, it is important to let the other person decide how much they wish to share. Some may open up immediately, while others may prefer to keep the conversation brief.

Respecting their response — without pushing for details — helps build trust. Support does not depend on knowing everything; it depends on being present and respectful.

Listening Without Fixing

A common instinct is to offer advice or solutions. However, in peer support, listening is often more helpful than problem-solving. Simple responses such as “That sounds really challenging” or “I’m glad you shared that” help validate the person’s experience.

Psychological First Aid emphasises this approach — prioritising calm presence, empathy, and practical support rather than diagnosis or judgement.

Knowing When to Encourage Further Support

Peer support has its limits. If concerns appear ongoing, severe, or beyond one’s capacity to help, encouraging additional support is appropriate. This might involve suggesting a conversation with a manager or directing the colleague to formal resources.

Respectful peer support includes knowing when to step back and ensuring that responsibility does not rest on one person alone.