Dealing with Depression at Work

A sad soul can kill you quicker than a germ – John Steinbeck

This year, the theme of the World Health day is: Depression: Let's Talk.

According to the latest estimates from WHO, more than 300 million people are now living with depression, an increase of more than 18 per cent between 2005 and 2015. At its worst, depression can lead to suicide, now the second leading cause of death in 15-29-year olds. 

While depression has become a commonly heard and known mental health issue, it is still not taken seriously enough by families, friends or workplaces. Add to it the fear of stigma which prevents people to seek out support especially at workplaces.

At workplaces, one is constantly under the pressure to perform and stay on top, any drop in morale/ motivation or performance is viewed negatively considering the employee disengaged or perhaps looking out for jobs elsewhere. It is hard to identify whether the issue is drop in engagement or is it a more serious issue like depression.

Some visible indicators of Depression are:

• Absenteeism
• Lack of punctuality
• Visible sadness
• Sloppy appearance
• Lack of appetite and concentration
• Missing out on critical deadlines
• Falling sick often etc

There are times when one finds a very active employee slow down, appear distracted or appear to have frequent mood swings or conflicts. It is recommended that we reach out and extend support to help the person pass through that difficult phase.

How can organisations support ?

• Creating an open communication and management functioning. Encourage people to talk. Come across as a supportive organisation.
• Create a flexible environment and help the employee to cope through the difficult phase to support better performance and reduce professional burden/ anxiety that might be adding on to the other reasons for depression.
• Treat matters with confidentiality and show respect for the employee's personal matters.
• Work on a mutually agreed time off plan. This could help to keep work targets from derailing. Change/ re allocation in role or responsibilities temporarily or permanently.
• Policies that support return to work post a longer leave/ sabbatical also go a long way in retaining good talent just the way it is defined for physical illnesses.
• Create a fun and happy workplace which helps to keep the general energy levels higher.
• Periodic health check ups and health initiatives to include meditation and healing strategies at work that support physical and mental well being.
• Guide/ provide counselling services to help the employee cope at work and life.

While the employee may / may not want to discuss his issues due to perceived stigma attached to mental ailments, it is important to be able to scan the environment for early signals and act.

Creating a sensing and supportive environment goes a long way in building a great organisation with work culture which is beyond the usual employee engagement initiatives and team lunches.

Here's an ancient prayer in Sanskrit wishing for everyone's well being:

Om Sarve Bhavantu Sukhinah, Sarve Santu Nir-Aamayaah

Sarve Bhadraanni Pashyantu, Maa Kashcid-Duhkha-Bhaag-Bhavet

Meaning:

Om, May All become Happy, May All be Free from Illness.

 May All See what is Auspicious, May no one Suffer.