When work is busy, it’s easy to overlook the challenges your colleagues may face outside the office. However, when a coworker gets sick, it’s important to remember your words and actions, as they can have a significant impact. During these times, simple acts of kindness can make a world of difference.

Whether through thoughtful messages, practical help, or just being there to listen, your efforts to support your sick colleagues can significantly ease their burden and aid their recovery. If you’re nyou’ree what to do or say, here are a few ways to show support and encouragement to a sick coworker:

1. Craft a Thoughtful Message

Sometimes, being sick can feel isolating. You are home, alone, often curled up on the couch, exhausted or in pain. It can be uplifting to know someone cares and is thinking of you. Sending a personalized message and well wishes to a sick coworker is a simple yet powerful gesture.

A heartfelt note tailored to the individual shows that you genuinely care about their well-being and think of them during difficult times. You could send a text saying, “I heard. “You’re getting well. Take all the time you need to recover. We miss you at the office.”” If you” “have time and postage, you could even mail a cheery get well soon card to put a smile on their face.

2. Send a Care Package

Sending a care package to a sick coworker is a sweet way to show your support and brighten their day. A well-curated care package should include items that provide comfort and entertainment. Consider including cozy items like a soft blanket or warm socks. Add some soup or herbal teas to nourish them while they recuperate. Including a good book, puzzle, or craft kit can also provide entertainment and help them pass the time.

Personal touches, such as a handwritten note from the team or a photo, can also encourage a smile. The note can be simple: “Here’s something to brighten your day. Hope you feel better soon.” You’re “e “them that their colleagues are thinking of them and wishing them well. Pre-packaged get-well gift baskets can also be ordered online. Remember that these gifts are more than just a collection of items; they’re a way to show you that you want to be supportive.

3. Offer Practical Help

While thoughtful notes and care packages are kind, it can be hard to appreciate them when you’re overwhelmed with childcare, pet care, and household responsibilities. Sometimes, the best text to receive is something as quick and easy a”I’m h”re” here at the store later. Can I pick up anything for y” you?” When issues arise, and the energy is needed to drive to town, receiving this kind of offer from a coworker can remind you that you have a support system even in your most challenging moments.

You can offer practical help in many different ways. You might offer to walk their dog or pick up their child from daycare. Or buy their groceries and offer to prepare meals for a few days. (Or order takeout.) These gestures show you recognize their challenges and are willing to step in to lighten their load. After all, their focus should be on resting and recovering.

4. Respect Their Privacy

Even though it might not feel like a way to be supportive, sometimes the best way to support someone is to leave them alone. Understanding boundaries is crucial when a coworker is sick. Make sure you respect their privacy and personal comfort levels. They may not want to share details about their illness, but that is for information — that doesn’t even add unnecessary stress to their situation if you feel like you reach out to them under pressure. That kind of message can look lik”: “J thrust”le” let knwe’re’re thwethereyou. No need to respond to you “t.” By  “es “rrespectingcowocoworkers, not prying, you show them you value their right to manage their health on their terms.

5. Advocate for Them at Work

All the tips mentioned above are not unique. A friend or family member can send a note or a care package just as easily, and they likely will. As a coworker, you are in a unique position to help your colleague in a way no one else can. You can ensure their work responsibilities are covered and advocate for their needs.

Talk with other team members or managers to redistribute tasks and delegate responsibilities. You might need to keep your sick coworker in the loop for certain projects. Although it may sound wrong to recommend contacting someone about work tasks when they’re in the office, in some cases, work can be a helpful distraction and can also make their return easier.

Keeping the sick coworker informed about key developments or decisions helps reduce anxiety about falling behind and can make their return easier. When you do send a work-related message, try to keep it brief. That could look li”e, “Jus” a “uickquickate on our project—looking forward to having you back on the t”am!” Ensure you know your coworker and their desires about this before bombarding them with work drama.

Be Authentically Supportive

Keep in mind that authenticity goes a long way in showing you care. No matter what action you take or what words you say, make sit’sicomit’sfromfrom the right place. If your spirit is moved and your heart is in the right place, most gestures will appear genuine and appreciated.