After an increase in his workload, my boss seems depressed, exhausted and panicky. Today I caught him in tears at his desk. Should I try to help?

Finding your boss teetering on the edge of reason is the stuff of many a PA’s dream: the delicious reversal of fortune that has him sobbing in the toilets for a change. So it’s lucky for your boss that you’re a compassionate creature.

Depression, exhaustion and panic are all signs of a man on the edge: the problem is that you don’t know what his problem is. Don’t assume that it’s his workload — for all you know his wife may have taken up with the milkman.

There are a couple of things you can do, though. If your relationship makes him unapproachable, have a confidential word with HR, which should have mechanisms in place to offer him some support.

Alternatively, when the two of you are alone, dust down your concerned voice and tell him that he doesn’t seem himself. Ask if you can help by cancelling meetings, stalling clients or just sorting out his e-mails. His reaction could range from a stiff upper lip to uncontrolled sobbing. Either way, unless he is devoid of reason he should be relieved that someone cares — and although his problem isn’t your responsibility, you should be awash with brownie points.

Then encourage him to take control. You can’t cure the man of his misery but you can possibly help to open the door to recovery.

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