In the last few weeks, many people have felt an increased worry and anxiety about the invasion of Ukraine. War can change a lot in our everyday lives, with everything from uncertainty about the future, fear of how we and our families may be affected, grief over others being affected and the possible economic consequences for Sweden and the whole of Europe.

To feel anxious and worries in the middle of a crisis is completely normal and some people may be able to handle it in a good way on their own. However, there are those who will need extra support and as an employer you can make a big and important difference by ensuring that those who are strongly affected by the ongoing crisis, get the help they need.

Studies show that early interventions are more effective when it comes to reducing stress and mental illness, rather than putting in interventions later on, when the anxiety and stress might have increased and the person have developed, or are close to developing, mental illness. Work is one of the places where we spend the most of our time, meaning that it is also a place where we can see and catch people who are feeling bad before it has gone too far. 

What can you as an employer do?

• Act as soon as you can! – Early interventions are the most effective interventions.
• Talk about it within your organisation – talk to your employees’ about what is going on in the world, so that they know that they can turn to their manager or their co-workers if needed.
• Schedule reconciliations with your employees to make sure you are aware of their mental state and how they may feel about everything that is going on. Keep an extra eye on the ones who are working from home! Sometimes it is easier to isolate yourself with your thoughts, if you are not around people every day.
• Follow up! – The situation is yet very uncertain and could change from one day to another. Make sure you follow up with your employees’ regularly to be assured that you have a good insight in their mental wellbeing.
• Be clear and create a safe space – The leaders who work well in stressful situations are usually the people who have the ability to remain calm, who can make decisions and act safely.
• Make it clear to your employees’ what resources, support or benefits you have available for them, that can be helpful to deal with stress and anxiety – provide information about who to turn to, or how they can get in touch with e.g. BlueCall, occupational health care or other support.
• Be aware of how you yourself may be affected and impacted by the situation. The situation may of course also affect you, and your ability to act as a manager. Do not forget to also listen to yourself and examine if you need support to be able to lead your group. Then it may be a good idea to hand over parts of your work to someone else.