10 Respectful Ways to Check-in on Someone’s Mental Well-being in the Workplace

As World Mental Health Day approaches on October 10th, it’s a timely reminder of the importance of supporting the emotional and mental well-being of those around us. Organized by the World Health Organization, World Mental Health Day shines a light on global mental health issues and promotes a deeper understanding of mental health challenges. In the workplace, where time is often spent juggling responsibilities and navigating various dynamics, checking in on a colleague’s well-being may feel like unfamiliar territory—particularly in industries like construction, manufacturing, or other male-dominated fields where showing emotion is often stigmatized.

Mental health can be a sensitive topic, and in many work environments, it may not always feel appropriate to bring up. People may resist opening up for fear of being judged, misunderstood, or perceived as weak. This resistance, however, should not be taken personally. It’s essential to approach any conversation with respect, understanding, and a willingness to accept the cues that others give. By respecting personal boundaries and workplace dynamics, it’s possible to create an environment where people feel safe to share their struggles—if and when they are ready.

Here are ten respectful ways to check in on a colleague’s emotional or mental well-being, keeping in mind that resistance is not personal, and cues are important.

10 Respectful Ways to Check-in on Someone’s Mental Well-being in the Workplace

2. Ask Open-ended Questions

When you do check in, avoid yes/no questions. Open-ended questions encourage more thoughtful responses and give the person room to share as much—or as little—as they’re comfortable with. Questions like, “How do you feel about the latest win for (insert sports team)?” or “How’s everything been going for you at work?” are broad enough to open up meaningful dialogue without being too direct or intrusive.

These questions provide a more respectful way of checking in, as they empower the other person to steer the conversation based on what they feel comfortable sharing. By keeping the questions open, you also leave space for them to reflect and possibly offer more details over time.

3. Respect Boundaries and Accept Resistance

One of the most important aspects of checking in on someone’s mental well-being is to respect their boundaries. It’s important to remember that not everyone is ready—or willing—to talk about their struggles, and that resistance to opening up is not personal. If someone seems uncomfortable, don’t push the conversation. Instead, acknowledge their reluctance and let them know you’re available whenever they feel ready.

A statement like, “I understand if you don’t want to talk right now, but I’m here if you need anything,” allows the other person to feel supported without pressure. Being mindful of the other person’s readiness to talk shows emotional intelligence and respect for their mental and emotional space.

4. Choose Private, Appropriate Spaces

Workplace environments are often busy and bustling, making it difficult to find the right time and place for personal conversations. Checking in with someone about their mental health should be done in a private and appropriate setting where the individual feels safe and respected. Asking someone, “Want to grab a coffee and take a quick break?” or, “Do you have a few minutes to step outside?” provides an opportunity to talk away from the distractions of the office or worksite.

By choosing a private space, you allow the person to open up without the fear of others overhearing or judging them. It also signals that you respect their privacy, which can make them more willing to share their thoughts or concerns.

5. Respond with Empathy, Not Pity

If someone does choose to share their struggles, how you respond is key. Showing empathy is much more effective than showing pity. Statements like, “That sounds really tough. I’m sorry you’re going through this, but I’m here if you need to talk,” demonstrate that you understand their feelings without making them feel pitied.

Pity can sometimes make a person feel worse, as if their situation is too dire or that they are seen as helpless. Empathy, on the other hand, empowers them to continue sharing while knowing you’re there to offer support without judgment. This distinction can make all the difference in building trust and encouraging future conversations.

6. Normalize Conversations About Stress

In certain industries, particularly male-dominated or high-pressure fields like construction or manufacturing, there can be an ingrained culture of toughness that discourages showing vulnerability. People may feel uncomfortable admitting they are struggling, fearing that it may be seen as weakness. One way to combat this stigma is to normalize conversations about stress.

By sharing your own experiences with stress or discussing how you manage the pressures of work, you create a more open environment where others feel safe to do the same. It’s a way of signaling that mental health challenges are not a sign of weakness, but a part of the human experience. This can make it easier for someone who is struggling to feel they aren’t alone.

7. Encourage Small Breaks

If you notice someone is becoming overwhelmed or burned out, suggesting a short break can provide relief. It gives the person a breather without putting them on the spot or asking them to explain their stress in detail.

Encouraging small breaks normalizes the idea that stepping away from work, even briefly, is okay and necessary for mental well-being. This can especially help in fast-paced environments where breaks might not be prioritized.

8. Follow Up After Initial Check-ins

Sometimes people aren’t ready to open up during the first conversation, but that doesn’t mean they won’t later. Following up a day or two later shows that your concern is genuine and ongoing. It signals that you’re available for continued support, and that your initial check-in wasn’t just a fleeting moment of interest. It helps build trust and may encourage the person to open up further as they see that you care about their well-being in the long term.

9. Offer Practical Help

Offering practical support can be a great way to check in without making the conversation explicitly about mental health. If someone seems stressed or overwhelmed with their workload, ask if there’s anything you can do to help. This could be offering assistance with a specific task, helping them prioritize their work, or even just lending an ear while they talk through their concerns.

Practical help can alleviate some of the pressures causing the stress, and it’s a non-intrusive way of showing that you care about their mental and emotional state.

10. Pay Attention to Nonverbal Cues

Often, what a person doesn’t say can tell you more than their words. If you notice that a colleague’s behavior or energy has changed—perhaps they’ve become more withdrawn, less engaged, or appear more fatigued—this might be a sign that they’re struggling. Nonverbal cues, like avoiding eye contact or a lack of enthusiasm in conversations, can also be indicators that someone is having a tough time.

A curious, “You seem a little different lately—everything okay?” can open the door to a conversation that helps them feel seen and understood.

Addressing Stigma and Creating a Safe Space

In many workplaces, especially those with strong cultural values of resilience, there can still be a stigma surrounding mental health. Checking in with colleagues about their mental well-being doesn’t have to be uncomfortable or invasive. By approaching the conversation with respect, empathy, and acceptance of resistance, you can create a supportive environment where people feel safe to share their feelings.

As we observe World Mental Health Day, let’s use this opportunity to continue building workplaces that respect both the mental and physical health of our colleagues. A small check-in today could make a significant difference in someone’s mental wellness for the days that follow.