Empathy Over Solutions
When a colleague mentions they are struggling with stress, anxiety, or personal challenges, our natural instinct is to try and solve the problem for them. However, in mental health advocacy, the most useful tool isn't advice—it is listening.
A helpful conversation doesn't require you to be a trained therapist. It requires you to create a safe space where the other person feels heard, respected, and not judged.
The L.A.R.R. Conversation Framework
- Listen without judgement: Focus entirely on their words.
- Acknowledge their feelings: Validate what they are saying.
- Refer: Know when professional help is needed.
- Reflect: Check in again later.