Good Systems · public information library

What can I do at work to help someone when their emotions feel big or quick?

People come here to understand why something in everyday life feels harder, different or more costly than it should — and what might make it work better.

Short answer

Respond to emotion with clarity and boundaries, not amateur clinical interpretation.

What this can look like

A strong reaction may follow unclear demand, surprise or accumulated pressure.

Why it can happen

Pressure, surprise and ambiguity can make any conversation harder. A pause, fewer inputs, a clear next step and respectful boundaries can help the team move forward.

What might help

Respond with clear boundaries and immediate facts; discuss the work conditions later without making clinical guesses.

What the research helps explain

Australian ADHD guidance and international consensus evidence describe ADHD as affecting everyday functioning for some people, including attention, planning, memory, time and follow-through. At work, practical supports and fair design can be useful without identifying anyone as having ADHD.

What can vary

Stress, sleep, health, task design, role clarity and preference can create similar work patterns. Do not diagnose employees, seek private medical information or make support conditional on disclosure.

For this situation

For you, address the work impact and support a safe conversation without labelling someone.

More info and original sources

Poko summarises the relevance of public original sources and links out for anyone who wants to read more.