See the signs. Start the conversation! Mental Health Tip: 3 Ways Managers Can Spot the Early Signs of Burnout
At EHS International, we know that protecting mental health is just as important as physical safety. Burnout rarely appears all at once, it builds over time.
The good news? Managers are often in the best position to spot the early signs and take action before things get worse.
Here are three simple ways to stay ahead of burnout on your team:
- Look out for changes in mood or behaviour
- Has someone become unusually quiet, short-tempered or disengaged? A noticeable shift in how someone interacts or carries themselves can be an early sign that they’re struggling.
- Pay attention to performance dips
- Burnout can affect focus, energy and motivation. If a usually reliable team member starts missing deadlines or seems less present, it might be more than just a bad week.
- Watch for constant overworking
- Logging long hours, skipping breaks, or always being “on” can be a red flag. Overworking often masks burnout – not productivity. Encourage regular breaks and model balance yourself.
At EHS International, we help organisations take a proactive approach to mental health. Building a culture of psychosocial safety isn’t just the right thing to do, it’s essential for long-term performance and wellbeing.
Partner with EHS International to strengthen your approach to psychosocial safety & find out how EHS International supports managers and teams across every industry.
Thank you for reading about: Ways Managers Can Spot the Early Signs of Burnout
About the Author: Louise Dennison O’Shaughnessy
Louise Dennison O’Shaughnessy is the Director of Mental Health & Wellness at EHS International, specialising in workplace mental health training and resilience-building. With over a decade of experience, Louise is a certified Mental Health Instructor, First Aid Trainer, and registered EMT. She is passionate about fostering supportive work environments, reducing absenteeism, and improving employee well-being through innovative training programmes.
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Resources for those in need of Mental Health Support.
At EHS International, we believe that having access to the right support at the right time can make all the difference. That’s why we’ve carefully curated a comprehensive list of trusted organisations dedicated to crisis intervention, counselling, and ongoing mental health services.
Moreover, these resources are designed to empower individuals, families, and workplaces with the tools and guidance they need to navigate mental health challenges effectively. Whether you’re seeking immediate assistance, exploring long-term support, or looking for ways to help someone in need, these organisations are ready to step in.
EHS International, are committed to fostering a community of care and resilience, and we aim to ensure that no one has to face mental health challenges alone.
Visit the EHS International Mental Health Hub
Crisis and Mental Health Support Services If you or someone you care about is in crisis and requires immediate support, please contact the Samaritans or one of the services listed below. The Samaritans provide confidential, non-judgmental assistance 24/7. Call 116 123 in the Republic of Ireland or 08457 90 90 90 in Northern Ireland, email them, or visit their website at www.samaritans.ie to find the nearest branch.
