What can I do at work to help someone when they are always overthinking what is wrong with them?

Short answer

Self-critical overthinking can grow when someone is trying to explain real friction without enough clarity.

What this can look like

A staff member may blame themselves when tasks keep becoming unclear, urgent or impossible to finish.

Why it can happen

Shift from “what is wrong?” to “what is happening in the work, and what could change?” That is more useful and safer for both manager and employee.

What might help

Give clear feedback about the work conditions and remove unnecessary ambiguity before making personal judgements.

What the research helps explain

A broad work pattern can be shaped by task demands, health, stress, recovery, environment and support. Public information can help leaders improve conditions and have better conversations; it cannot decide what label, if any, applies to a staff member.

What can vary

Do not diagnose, compare suffering, demand private information or assume that visible output tells you the full cost. New, severe or concerning changes may need appropriate professional advice.

For this situation

For you, use specific examples and practical supports, not amateur interpretation.

More info and original sources

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

• About psychosocial hazards — Australian guidance on identifying and managing work conditions that can create psychosocial harm.
• Executive Functions — Explains attention, working memory and flexibility as distinct, context-sensitive processes.