QAnemployeeseemsunusuallytiredlatelyShesaysshe：问一个员工显得异常疲惫最近她说她.docxVIP

Q. An employee seems unusually tired lately. She says she has trouble sleeping. Can an EAP referral help her, or are sleeping problems a medical issue? I could simply recommend she speak with her doctor. There’s nothing wrong with that, right?A. Your employee says she is not sleeping, but to say it is a “sleeping problem” with a medical solution is a diagnostic conclusion. Sleeping problems could be caused by many things such as financial trouble, relationship issues, child rearing, even drug or alcohol use. Telling someone to see a doctor for a healthcare problem sounds like a no-brainer, but in the workplace you must consider other factors and your role. This makes the Employee Assistance Program (EAP) your best bet. From this gateway, the employee can access all options. For a simple case of insomnia, the EAP might probe to determine the cause, and suggest practical steps that promote better sleep. For more complex sleep problems—from anxiety disorders to nagging physical pain to disrupted circadian rhythm patterns—the EAP can provide a referral to the appropriate health expert. The EAP will also help distinguish between physiological and psychological factors that disturb sleep.Q. I know supervisors should not be discussing personal problems with employees and instead should refer to the EAP. I don’t wish to interfere with employees seeking help, but how do I manage becoming a supervisor who no longer listens when I’ve always played this role?A. You can still be a warm and approachable supervisor who listens. In fact, nothing could be more helpful to the EAP, because you are trusted by employees and in an ideal position to facilitate their self-referral. The important issue is avoiding the counseling role. Crossing this line impedes employee motivation to seek proper help from the EAP. It also dissipates a feeling of urgency needed to hurdle the resistance most employees face in their decision to get professional help. Listen and be encouraging and supportive,