Warning Signs

We are frequently asked in the EAP how to identify when an employee should be referred to our office for an assessment. The following is a list of the most common behaviors that indicate an employee may be experiencing problems that are exceeding their coping skills. Since these behaviors may have a wide variety of causes and do overlap frequently, we caution that this list is not meant as a diagnostic tool. It is being offered as a checklist to help you know…It’s Time to Intervene!!

• Negative changes in quality of work, attendance, attitude, performance
• Accidents both on and off the job
• Frequent, prolonged and often unexplained absences
• Deterioration of physical appearance and grooming
• Pattern of calling in sick the morning of their shift
• Overreaction to real or imagined criticism
• Pattern of life complaints that never seem to get resolved
• When asked if their getting help, they make vague references in the affirmative, however problems continue

Finally, ask yourself…”If everyone at this station/unit was acting in the same manner as this person, could we function as a station/unit?” If the answer is “no, we couldn’t function…” then its time to intervene. If you would like to consult with EAP as to the most effective way to approach this person, please give us a call at (800) 252-8352.

Keep in mind that the most dangerous course of action is to watch problems continue and do nothing.