Helping cope with depression at work

Depression Overview ›› Depression Overview

At any one time one worker in six will be experiencing depression, anxiety or problems relating to stress. It's a normal part of working life. Of the nearly 19 million American adults with a depressive disorder, almost 90 percent of them say that their illness has affected their ability to do their job. Nationally, depression affects at least one in six of us, and this figure can be higher in high performing organisations where a lot of pressure is placed on employees to deliver.

Work is on the whole very good for our mental health. Employers need to support people in whatever way they can to maintain their jobs. That�s because when you have depression, it can be challenging to just get out of bed in the morning, much less go to work.

Many people find that a combination of antidepressants and talking therapies work well and enable them to carry on working at the same time as receiving support. With the right treatment plan, you probably will be able to manage working while undergoing depression treatment, and maybe even look forward to it.

A good healthy workplace that looks after its staff and supports them in doing the best job they can is a successful workplace. Employees who see others being treated fairly and humanely will stay and will be more productive.

Depression: Symptoms That Could Affect Work

Depression symptoms that are more likely to cause difficulty at work include

Frequent Crying
Persistent sad
lack of care
Trouble concentrating
Fatigue

Can help motivate you.
While you are at work, it is important to

Do short breaks.
Stepping back from work and doing something that relaxes you, like meditating or listening to music, can help you cope with stress.

Keep in touch.
Make regular phone calls during the day to friends and family, since staying in contact with someone you trust can give you perspective on what really matters and keep you focused on getting better.

Take small steps.
When you are working on a project that seems overwhelming, break it into multiple steps, and complete them one at a time.

Stick to the treatment of depression.
Take your medications and visit your doctor to ease the depression symptoms.

Sources and Additional Information:
http://www.guardian.co.uk/society/joepublic/2008/apr/21/helpingcopewithdepressiona
http://www.everydayhealth.com/depress