Be clear and concise, stating the specifics of how your mental health problems are impacting your work. The point here is to keep it professional and appropriate--your boss is not a therapist or close friend, so you need to stick to what matter's to the workplace.
The two-pronged approach to take when your boss may be experiencing mental health issues is to 1) find strategies that reduce the stress their illness causes for you; 2) do what you can to encourage your boss to seek wellness. Finally, if none of these work, my advice to you is to take care of your own mental health.
Ask simple, open and non-judgmental questions and let people explain in their own words how their mental health problem manifests, the triggers, how it impacts on their work and what support they need.
These are the key things you should be considering when managing employees with mental health issues: Be clear on your obligations. Take proactive steps. Know the signs and triggers. Keep communication open. Follow a robust performance management process.
For this reason it's vital you have a meaningful conversation with your employee about their needs and really listen to them. Be positive – focus on what employees can do, rather than what they can't. Work together and involve people in finding solutions as much as possible.
If you find you are not able to work due to a mental health condition, short- or long-term, connect with a social service provider that can address your needs. Having a fulfilling job that you are able to perform can do wonders to improve mental health.
Let your colleague know that you are there if they need someone to talk to, but don't force them to open up if they aren't ready. Ask them how you can help and respect whether he/she wishes to talk about it. Don't make any judgements on what is going on.
The 5Cs are competence, confidence, character, caring, and connection. The anxiety dimensions are Social anxiety, Physical symptoms, Separation anxiety, and Harm avoidance.
There are many ways you can help a friend, relative or colleague who has a mental health problem: Talking about mental health. Set time aside with no distractions. Let them share as much or as little as they want to. Don't try to diagnose or second guess their feelings. Keep questions open ended. Talk about self-care.