Depression In The Workplace
As we referenced in Depression Part 1 in 2016 the Conference Board of Canada reported that depression costs the Canadian economy at least $32.3 billion a year. In 2000 psychiastrist.com estimated the cost in the United States for depressive disorder was at $83.1 billion. These costs were up from the 1993 figures that estimated a U.S. cost of $24 billion and Canada of $2-3 billion in worker absenteeism, and diminished productivity. These figures indicate how important it is to address depression in the workplace.
The Signs
Depression in the workplace may appear in many of the following ways:
- Difficulty in making decisions
- Decreased productivity
- Irritability and or hostility
- Withdrawal from or extreme dependency on others
- Hopelessness/despair
- Slowness of speech
- Chronic fatigue
- Slumping posture, flat or blank facial expression
- Inability to concentrate
- Decreased dependability
- Unusual increase in errors in work
- Reoccurring injuries
- Tardiness, absenteeism
- Lack of enthusiasm for work
- Reduced self-esteem
Recognizing The Signs Early
By recognizing the signs of depression early the impacts on both the employer and employee can be minimized. This will help the employee deal with the depression and improve the reduced performance.
Early detection increases the morale of co-workers and at the same time helps to increase awareness and understanding of depression.
Recognizing the early signs of depression reduces the health care costs for the employer.
Supporting a Colleague Suffering From Depression
[Source](https://pixabay.com/en/help-hand-offer-despair-depression-3049553/)
When one of your colleagues is experiencing depression it is important to maintain the same relationship, offer encouragement and support. Show them respect and make them aware of their value to you and their other co-workers.
Do not attempt to diagnose the problem but encourage them to seek help. Depression is a fatal illness that can be treated. However if left without treatment 15% of people will commit suicide. Take the threats of suicide seriously.
Where To Seek Help
Workplaces differ from each other and their health resources are not all the same. However the most important thing for the undiagnosed person who suspects they may have depression is to understand that help is available.
Depending on the workplace resources some options are:
- Depending on the workplace resources some options are:
- On-site occupational health professional
- Human resources personnel
- Employee assistance professional
- Community health care professionals
- Help lines
A person suffering from depression cannot be forced to seek help. It helps if they know their employer is supportive. Like alcoholism, financial or family problems, depression in the workplace is a type of problem that employee assistance programs exist to help by referring people for appropriate treatment.