HS&E Operatives practice question: Mental health and wellbeing (2 of 7)
B. Occupational health A free question from our original HS&E Operatives practice exam. Try it, then open the answer to see why each option is right or wrong.
For a few weeks you have felt under a lot of pressure at work. You are not sleeping well and you dread coming in.
What is the best first step?
Choose one answer.
AA. Talk to someone, such as your manager
BB. Keep it to yourself so you don't look weak
CC. Work longer hours until the pressure goes away
DD. Wait until it affects your work before saying anything
Show the answer and explanation
Answer: A
A. Right: Right. HSE says it is important to talk to someone early, such as your manager. If that is difficult, you can talk to a union rep, HR, an employee assistance service or your GP.
B. Wrong: Wrong. Keeping quiet often lets things get worse. Raising it early gives people the chance to help.
C. Wrong: Wrong. Working longer usually adds to the pressure and tiredness. Talk to someone about what is causing it.
D. Wrong: Wrong. It is better to speak up before things get worse, for you and for the people working around you.
Explanation
If you are struggling, talk to someone early: your manager, a union or employee rep, HR, an employee assistance service or your GP. Your employer has a duty to assess and act on work-related stress.