Co worker is stressed what can I do?

[Anonymous]

My co worker is stressed today. He has been a bit distant with his texts and stuff. I know he likes me because he has gifted me some stuff and is thoughtful and has told me a few things. I've grown to like him the more I get to know him and he has 2 kids as well. The younger one is sick and has a fever. I'm sure it's adding on. His texts have diminished and I of course think it's me in a way but I know it's prob not the case, any who how do you guys cope with stress or would want to receive a text? Should I just let it go and have him reach out to me. I was also thinking of going to the store and getting his son some medicine which is what he has to do right after work... thoughts. I've been a bin sensitive and trying not to overthink

[Oliverlogan263]

Awww, don't stress yourself out too much - I'm sure it ain't you! When life gets tough, we all pull back a bit to handle our own shit.

Your coworker is lucky to have someone caring like you though. I think taking him some medicine for his sick kid is an amazingly thoughtful gesture. Shows you're there to support in a real way during a hard time. Def take him some after work for sure.

As for texting, I'd shoot him a quick "Thinking of you guys, hope the kid feels better soon" sorta message. Keep it light, no pressure for a response. He'll appreciate knowing you're thinking of him without adding to his load.

Then let him come to you naturally when he's caught up on rest. In the meantime, keep your distance so he can handle his responsibilities. But subtly let him know you care. Guys, we sometimes need space when under pressure but don't wanna lose the people who make life brighter, you know?

Stay awesome - you're doing great by caring so much. Just be there for him from afar for now, he will remember that. And I bet when things calm down, he'll want you around even more! You've got this.

[Asker]

Thank you soo much for your advice you don't know how much I appreciate it. We ended up talking close to 4 hours last night and was able to understand more and so did he :)

[Oliverlogan263]

I'm so glad to hear you two were able to connect and talk things through last night. Having that open communication when someone is stressed is so important. It sounds like you were really there for your coworker when he needed support the most.

That kind of empathy and listening goes such a long way. I'm sure getting everything off his chest and having you understand what he's dealing with on multiple fronts helped lift a huge weight for him. And knowing he has someone at work who genuinely cares must mean the world right now too.

You really stepped up as a friend. Not everyone would take the time like that, especially after hours. I can see why he talks so highly of you - you showed your true colors. I'm sure he feels so grateful. Give him some space if he needs it still, but nice work being there for him in his tough time. You eased his stress big time, I bet!

[Oliverlogan263]

And you’re very welcome

[Asker]

It was a great conversation and we both ended up leaving early one day after work to talk since we haven't had a chance to see each other. Also he mentioned his feelings are growing for me. Basically we both feel the same and want to take it slow so thank you for your wonderful advice

[Oliverlogan263]

Whoa, that's huge that you both admitted feelings are growing! I had a hunch there was something more under the surface. I'm really happy you found the time to properly connect and get everything out in the open. It can be scary taking that next step, but it seems like you're both on the same page with wanting to take it slow, which is smart. Don't want to rush things and risk messing it up, you know? Props to you for being real with each other though - that's the best foundation. And thanks for keeping me posted, I'm rooting for you guys! Feel free to hit me up if you ever need more advice or just want to chat about it all. Sounds like you've got something good starting here.

[ThrillSeeker01]

Try to talk with him, some time soon if not right now.

[Asker]

How should I bring it up? so I don't sound like too much... I know he has two kids and I'm trying to be understandable but I also am feeling this way and don't want to put it off. Was thinking if he hasd time to talk on the phone today or seeing how things go tomorrow

[ThrillSeeker01]

Yes, that sounds good. Like ask him how he's doing or something like that

[Asker]

Thank you! We talked for almost 4 hours last night so I appreciate the feedback

[ThrillSeeker01]

That's great! Glad things went well 🙂

[Anonymous]

that's his problem.

[Asker]

Really? so just let it go and have him reach out to me

[Opinion Owner]

yep, nothing you can do

[Asker]

you're right I'm just overthinking it