3 Vital Ways to Support Your Team Amid Crisis

Happy Sunday, Leaders!

This week was rough.

This weekend, there's political upheaval.

Social media is going wild. 

It's all over the news.

Last week a hurricane hit Houston. 

Millions were without power in scorching temperatures.

Stress is high. 

Anxiety is through the roof.

As leaders, we feel the weight. 

Our teams are nervous and stressed.

It’s easy to ignore it and pretend everything is normal. 

And keep plugging away at work. 

But that's not helpful.

The stress from external events doesn’t stay outside the workplace—it spills over, affecting everyone’s work and well-being.

Here’s what I have learned:

First, acknowledge the stress.

Your team is human. 

They have worries.

When you name the stress, it becomes easier to manage.

So, how can you help?

1. Daily Check-Ins

Start each 1:1 or team meetings with a check in.

This isn’t just a routine—it's a chance to connect. 

Here’s how you can do it:

• Listen Actively: Don’t interrupt. Nod, make eye contact, and show you’re engaged
• Ask Simple Questions: “How are you feeling today?” “What’s on your mind?”
• Validate Feelings: “I hear you", or “Thanks for sharing.”

This creates a space where team members feel seen and heard. 

These daily check-ins can spill over into the work environment, improving communication and building trust within your team.

2. Encourage rest and time off.

Stress builds up. Encourage your team to take short, frequent breaks to recharge. 

Lead by example.

Take breaks yourself. Show it’s okay to step away.

If they need it, encourage folks to take days off.

Remind your team to unplug after work hours and over the weekend. 

Suggest activities that help them relax, like reading, walking, or spending time with loved ones.

3. Share Resources

Provide access to stress management tools. 

This shows you care about their well-being. Here’s how:

• Find articles, apps, and videos on stress management.
• If your company provides it, remind your team about counseling services.
• Create a shared folder or intranet page where all these resources are easily accessible.

Sharing resources empowers your team with tools to manage their stress. 

Well-supported employees are more resilient, which positively impacts their performance and the overall team dynamic.

By taking these steps, you can help your team feel supported and valued.

If you need help designing a stress reduction strategy for your team. 

Here’s to a better week ahead. 

Always wishing you the best,

Dr. Beckford

P.S. Whenever you’re ready, here is how I can help you:

1.  Reduce your team’s stress through a customized 1:1 training

P.P.S. Here’s what others are saying.