The Effects of Depression in the Workplace

Productivity and success in the work environment depends on everyone's contribution. That's why no one in the workplace can afford to ignore depression. This year, more than 19 million American adults (9.5% of the population) will suffer from this often misunderstood disorder.

Depression is not a passing mood. It is not a personal weakness. It is a major--but treatable--illness. No job category or professional level is immune, and even a formerly outstanding employee can be affected. The good news is that, in more than 80% of cases, treatment is effective. Treatment includes medication, short-term talk therapy, or a combination of both.

Untreated depression is costly. A RAND Corporation study found that patients with depressive symptoms spend more days in bed than those with diabetes, arthritis, back problems, lung problems or gastrointestinal disorders. Estimates of the total cost of depression to the nation in 1990 range from $30-$44 billion. Of the $44 billion figure, depression accounts for close to $12 billion in lost work days each year. Additionally, more than $11 billion in other costs accrue from decreased productivity due to symptoms that sap energy, affect work habits, cause problems with concentration, memory, and decision-making. And costs escalate still further if a worker's untreated depression contributes to alcoholism or drug abuse.

Still more business costs result when an employee or colleague has a family member suffering from depression. The depression of a spouse or child can disrupt working hours, lead to days absent from work, affect concentration and morale, and decrease productivity.

Workers at every level in an organization can do something about depression. You can start by learning more about this common and serious illness. If you think you or a loved one may have depression, take action and seek help from a mental health specialist. Recovery from depression begins as soon as treatment is sought. You can't overcome depression by willpower, so it is important to seek professional help.

Symptoms of Depression

If a person has five or more of these symptoms for more than two weeks, a professional diagnosis should be sought ASAP. Not everyone who is depressed experiences every symptom listed below. The severity of symptoms also varies with individuals. A person's diagnosis depends on the number of symptoms they have, how strong those symptoms are, and how long they last. Untreated depression doesn't just "go away," rather, the symptoms will just get more severe over time.

DEPRESSION IS EVERYBODY'S BUSINESS. TREAT IT. DEFEAT IT.

Back