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Mental health does not exist separately from the working day. Employees bring the pressures of everyday life to work, while workload, deadlines, workplace relationships and change can add pressures of their own.

Mental Health Awareness Month is a useful reminder that supporting employee wellbeing does not mean managers need to have all the answers. Often, it begins with something much simpler: noticing when someone seems different, making time to check in and knowing where to direct them if they need professional support.

Changes in concentration, behaviour, attendance or performance may be signs that an employee is struggling, but managers should not try to diagnose the cause. What they can do is create an environment where employees feel able to speak up before things become overwhelming.

An Employee Assistance Programme (EAP) can provide an important support channel, particularly when employees understand what is available, how to access it and trust that the service is confidential.

This month, take a moment to consider whether your employees know where to turn when they need support.

Sometimes a simple “How are you, really?” is a good place to start.