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The Workplace and Depression | Employee Assistance Programs

The Workplace and Depression

At the current time depression affects about 10% of the American population. Although estimates vary, some experts state that 10% to 15% of all lost work days are due to depression and depressive illnesses. Clearly, the workplace is an area that needs to recognize the significant impact that mental disorders have on productivity, direct and indirect costs, employee health and employee retention.

Symptoms of Depression in the Workplace

      • Decreased productivity.
      • Absenteeism.
      • Lack of cooperation.
      • Morale problems.
      • More accidents and/or safety risks.
      • Employee exhaustion or lack of energy.
      • New aches and pains.
      • Signs of alcohol or drug abuse.

How Does Depression Affect the Employee ?

In addition to the many physical and mental effects of depression on an individual, there are numerous effects of depression on the individual's presence in the workplace. Among the more serious and devastating effects are:

      • Lower productivity.
      • Lower overall job performance.
      • Unable to work with others.
      • Unable to make decisions or concentrate.
      • Costly mistakes.
      • Accidents.
      • Absenteeism.
      • Possible alcohol or drug abuse.
      • Other off the job problems.

What can a Supervisor Do ?

Supervisors are some of the first to become aware or suspicious of an employee's depression or mental disorder. One of the first things supervisors should do is become educated about depression, treatment options and sources of help. They should also become familiar with the company's employee assistance programs and health benefits.

When a supervisor recognizes signs of depression in an employee he or she should not attempt to diagnose the illness. Rather, the supervisor should discuss the changes in work performance with the employee and listen to the employee's response. The supervisor can suggest that the employee seek professional consultation with the company's employee assistance program. If the employee makes any statement suggesting that his or her life is not worth living then the supervisor should immediately contact one of the company mental health care professionals. These type of comments should be considered very serious

Employers, supervisors and managers can and should address the problem of depression in the workplace. Among the many things they can do, the most important are:

  • Increase management awareness at all levels.
  • Train the employee assistance programs staff to recognize mental disorders including depression. They should be ready to make appropriate referrals and provide other assistance.
  • Educate employees and distribute brochures about depression and other mental disorders.
  • Corporate medical programs should be updated and contain employee health benefits for mental disorders.
  • Remove any obstacle that may hinder an employee's request for help or assistance.
  • Display information about depression, employee assistance programs and treatment options in the workplace.

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