Elm is for those who feel overwhelmed by their workload. Usually competent and capable, they momentarily lose confidence and become despondent. Elm types make good managers and are often in positions of responsibility, concerned with the welfare of others, e.g. doctors, teachers, therapists, heads of industry.

Elm is indicated when these capable people suddenly feel overwhelmed by their responsibilities and feel unable to deal with them or keep up with events; this is often brought about by taking on too much work without taking care of themselves. As a result they feel depressed and exhausted, with a temporary loss of self-esteem. Even a momentary doubt of their own abilities causes them to feel weak and debilitated.