I’ve gone through a difficult period in my private life. I have spent a lot of time wondering whether this is something I should tell people at work – my direct managers, but also others I work with regularly.

On the one hand, I think my work, or at least my moods and demeanour, has been affected and will continue to be. I want people to understand that there is a reason for that; I don’t want this to be a secret I keep from people I respect. On the other hand, I hate the idea of being felt sorry for or being tiptoed around. I don’t want this to become an excuse or a reason to be treated differently.

I know it’s difficult to say without knowing what experience I’m talking about, but nonetheless I would like some advice on whether to stay quiet or tell the truth.

Sharing personal news with your colleagues can feel like a big step, but it’s almost always the right thing to do.Credit: John Shakespeare

I’m really sorry to hear about your recent struggles and I understand your unwillingness to go into details. Yes, it can be a little bit tricky to provide guidance........

© The Sydney Morning Herald