Skip to main content

Well-Being Champions Network

Well-being Champions Network
Join the Network

What do I do when a colleague is struggling?

← All questions

Last updated 10 November 2026

Someone is strugglingAsked at WELLx October 2026For Managers, Peer Supporters

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

In short

Notice changes, ask privately, listen, let them lead, connect them to help and follow up. If you are worried about suicide, ask directly and get help together.

This covers whether to give someone space or show concern, what to do when a colleague says they are depressed and how to raise burnout with a manager.

What to do

  1. Notice Look for changes from how the person usually is that go on for more than a few days, such as withdrawal, missed deadlines, irritability or tiredness.
  2. Ask privately and simply For example: “I’ve noticed you’ve been quieter than usual lately. How are you doing?” If you are worried about suicide, ask directly: “Are you having thoughts of suicide?” Asking does not put the idea in their head, and it makes it easier for them to tell you. If they say yes, stay with them. Call Samaritans of Singapore (1767) or national mindline 1771 together, now. If they are in immediate danger, call 995.
  3. Listen more than you speak You do not need to fix anything. Thank them for telling you.
  4. Let them lead If there is no immediate risk, ask what would help. Some people want space and others want company.
  5. Connect them to help Offer to help them contact your EAP, a doctor or a helpline. If you are their manager, make clear that asking for help is the right thing to do and will be treated fairly. Before you finish, agree what each of you will do next.
  6. Follow up a few days later.

Watch out for

  • Avoid quick reassurance such as “You’ll be fine”, which can make it harder for them to ask for help.
  • If you need to raise burnout with a manager, describe the work pattern you have seen, such as covering an empty post for months or being given conflicting instructions, instead of labelling the person.

Where to get help in Singapore

  • national mindline 1771: call 1771, WhatsApp 6669 1771 or webchat at mindline.sg, 24 hours a day (MOH)
  • Samaritans of Singapore: 1767, 24 hours a day
  • Immediate danger to life: 995

Discover more

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

ArticleSupporting Colleagues in Distress: What to Say, What Not to SayArticleBefore the Crash: How to Recognise Burnout Before It Takes HoldRelated questionAn employee is coming back after mental health-related leave. How do we plan their return?Related questionA colleague has lost someone close. How do we support them at work?

Was this answer helpful?

Share this answer

WhatsAppEmail
Next in Someone is struggling →An employee is coming back after mental health-related leave. How do we plan their return?

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