Good Systems · public information library

What can I do at work to help someone when someone looks completely drained?

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

If someone looks drained, lower immediate pressure and offer practical choices.

What this can look like

Someone may look flat or slower while still wanting privacy.

Why it can happen

They do not owe you their private story. Ask what would make the next week manageable, check workload and point to available supports without forcing disclosure.

What might help

Lower immediate pressure, offer choices and avoid requiring a personal account to access fair treatment.

What the research helps explain

WHO describes burn-out as an occupational phenomenon linked to chronic workplace stress that has not been successfully managed. Australian guidance recognises that workload, control, support and work design affect wellbeing and performance; they are organisational responsibilities as well as individual experiences.

What can vary

Fatigue, cognitive changes and reduced capacity can have many causes. Do not diagnose burnout, depression or illness from work behaviour, or ask employees to disclose private health information to access fair work design.

For this situation

For you, act with care while keeping boundaries and formal processes clear.

More info and original sources

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