My colleague’s mental health is suffering: should I intervene?

Sarah McKimm advises a dentist who has noticed signs of poor mental health in a colleague – is stepping in the responsible choice or a breach of professional boundaries?

The scenario

I’m reaching out because I’m getting increasingly worried about a fellow associate in my practice. We’ve worked together for several years, and although dentistry is stressful for all of us, something has changed in him over the past few months. He’s withdrawn, noticeably anxious, and often looks exhausted. The changes are small but enough that the nurses have commented. He skips lunch, stays late in his surgery with the door closed, and brushes off any attempts to talk with a joke or a vague: ‘I’m fine.’

The atmosphere in the practice is shifting because of it. Our team is trying to support him, but we’re all quietly worried. I don’t know whether something personal is going on or if the pressure of work is taking its toll. What I do know is that he seems to be struggling, and I don’t want to ignore the signs and later regret not stepping in.

My dilemma is this: I’m not sure what my role should be. I’m a colleague, not a clinician in this context, and I’m conscious of boundaries. I don’t want to overstep or make him feel scrutinised, but doing nothing feels irresponsible. I care about him as a friend and value him as part of our team. I want to ask if he’s okay but I’m worried I’ll make things worse, or that he’ll feel embarrassed or defensive.

I’m torn between wanting to help, respecting his privacy, and ensuring patient safety. How do I approach this sensitively and appropriately?