Who are you and what is your position?
My name is Susanne Berkien and I have been working as a Occupational Social Worker for the Faculty of Social Sciences for six years.
What kinds of questions can employees come to you with?
Staff can come to me when they notice that something is throwing them off balance mentally and that this is affecting their work, of if they notice that their work is throwing them off balance mentally. So, I focus on psychosocial work stress. This could be a change in work-life balance, such as caring for a family member or experiencing a loss.
It may also be the case that someone feels that their work is becoming too demanding or no longer suits them, for example because tasks have been added or removed. Other people come to me when they notice that they have been less focused and unable to concentrate properly for some time. You can also come to me if illness is affecting your mental well-being.
It is important to note that you don’t need to be on sick leave to make an appointment. I prefer to see people well before that point, when they first start to wonder whether “everything is okay”.
In addition, I can provide support in cases of tensions or conflict with colleagues as a neutral discussion facilitator. For example, I help supervisors with issues related to employees, such as supporting someone who is returning to work after a long period of illness. And after significant events on campus, I talk to employees to hear how they experienced it and whether they need extra support.
You don’t need to be on sick leave to make an appointment.
What does an appointment or process with you look like?
During an initial meeting (the intake), we explore together what exactly your question or concern is. We map out what is going on in your situation, such as what has happened, how things are going at work and in your private life, what gives you energy and what you have already tried to change your situation. Based on this, we draw up a plan together with concrete steps that you will take in the period after the meeting. In follow-up meetings, we will discus show things are going and see if the plan needs to be adjusted. We will continue to do this until you have regained sufficient control and confidence to continue independently.
What advice would you give to employees?
Take your mental health as seriously as your physical health. If you find that you are (increasingly) dreading your work, are suffering from prolonged fatigue or have other concerns, look for help. Many people wait too long to do so, when in fact it helps to address the issue early on. When in doubt, my advice is: come and see me. Together, we can untangle the problem and you will often gain a fresh perspective on the situation.
Take your mental health as seriously as your physical health.
What makes your work so enjoyable?
In my work, I am not only be there to listen to people, but I can also really help people move forward. Together, we can clarify problems and take concrete steps towards improvement. Sometimes we solve everything completely, sometimes we help someone on their way, or we discover that other help is more appropriate. And all this in a setting where accessibility and expertise are key. Being the tool that enables people to take control again and take steps forward is the best thing there is.
How can employees make an appointment with you?
You can schedule an appointment with me in just a few clicks on the website. Consultations take place in the dentistry building and are always confidential and independent. There is no charge.