1 6 INSTITUTE FOR WORK & HEALTH
• Implementation tip: If someone at work doesn't seem like their usual
self, checking in with them and asking if they need support may be
helpful.
• Strive to remain aware and informed of supports, services and resources
available in your workplace and in your community. That way, if a worker
approaches you about their depression, you will have the information to
help them access support as early as possible.
Rob is the charge nurse for a team of seven nurses. He loves his job, but the stress of his responsibilities,
coupled with the experience of losing patients and witnessing the effects of their illnesses, sometimes taxed
his mental wellness, especially since he has a history of depression.
Andrei, a member of Rob's team of nurses, started noticing that Rob had become a little quiet lately, and
that he wasn't checking in with the team as often as he used to. Although Rob was his supervisor and the
one who usually reached out to offer debriefing and support, Andrei wondered whether it would be okay for
him to approach Rob and ask if everything was okay.
Andrei toyed with the idea for a little while, and ended up deciding it couldn't hurt as long as he didn't
come across as prying. One day, after a particularly trying shift, he approached Rob and mentioned the
recent loss of a patient, which had been particularly upsetting for the team.
Andrei used this to segue into further conversation with Rob, letting him know that the team appreciated
his support, and that they were there for him in return.
Rob thanked Andrei for his thoughtfulness. The conversation made Rob realize just how depleted he had
been feeling over the past few weeks, and Andrei's gentle offer of support motivated Rob to invest in his
mental health more intentionally. He decided to start clearing some time for a walk outside during the
day, during which time he could also listen to his favorite heavy metal bands—two of his foolproof coping
mechanisms.
Case Study:
A supportive co-worker
