Do you suffer from depression at work?

Depression is a widespread and often hidden problem that affects millions of people around the world. Workplace depression can be particularly insidious, affecting not only an individual’s mental health, but also their productivity, relationships, and overall well-being.

At work, depression can manifest itself in various ways and its consequences are considerable. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), depression is the leading cause of disability worldwide and can significantly affect an individual’s ability to work and function in a professional setting. The WHO estimates that more than 264 million people worldwide suffer from depression, making it a significant global health problem that costs U.S. employers an estimated $44 billion annually in lost productivity, absenteeism and healthcare costs. .

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Know the signs of depression at work

How do you know if it’s your job that’s making you depressed at work, or something else entirely? Experts say there are a number of telltale signs you can look for to determine whether it’s just a difficult time in your life or something more serious:

Persistent sadness: Do you have a persistent feeling of sadness or emptiness? At work, this can manifest as a lack of motivation, reduced enthusiasm, and a general feeling of hopelessness. It’s like the “Sunday scares” at 10th degree where it is no longer scary, but rather a feeling of doom.

Your productivity has fallen, but you feel overwhelmed: Depression at work can occur when you feel like it’s difficult to concentrate and complete even simple tasks. This can have a domino effect of lower productivity, missed deadlines, and errors in your work.

You are tired all the time: Do you experience real physical symptoms such as fatigue and trouble sleeping? This can lead to increased absenteeism and presenteeism, where you are physically present but not fully engaged in your work.

Everyone is boring you: People experiencing workplace depression may withdraw from social interactions, both within and outside of the workplace. If you suffer from depression, you may find yourself avoiding team meetings and lunches. and other social events. This can often lead to isolation and strained relationships with your colleagues.

Everything bores you: Do the little things discourage you? Depression at work can make you more irritable and prone to anger. This can lead to conflicts with co-workers and supervisors, further exacerbating workplace stress.

You feel trapped: If you constantly feel trapped in your job, like you have no control over your work situation or limited opportunities for advancement, this can contribute to feelings of hopelessness and depression.

What to do if your job is making you depressed

Fortunately, there are solutions that you are absolutely not stuck on. Here’s how to get the help you need, make essential changes, or simply get out and give your body and mind the emotional healing they need:

Take time to think: Set aside time to think about the specific aspects of your job that are causing you stress and depression. Identifying the root causes can help you address them more effectively.

Find help: Talk to friends, family members, or a mental health professional about your feelings and experiences. Sharing your thoughts and feelings can provide emotional support and a different perspective.

Set limits or renegotiate existing limits: Establish clear boundaries between work and personal life. Make sure you have time for activities and relationships that bring you joy and relaxation outside of work.

Talk to your boss: If possible, have an open and honest conversation with your supervisor or HR department about your concerns. They may be able to offer solutions or accommodations to alleviate some of the stressors.

Make fun a priority: Prioritize self-care activities, such as exercise, mindfulness, meditation, and hobbies, to help you manage stress and improve your mental well-being.

Getting a new job: Determine whether a change in your current job, such as an adjustment to your role or responsibilities, is possible and would improve your situation. You can also explore other job opportunities that might better match your needs and career goals. At some point, you may realize that you are stuck in a toxic work situation and that the best possible solution for your career and your mental health is to move on.

Get professional help: If your depression persists or worsens, consider seeking help from a therapist, counselor, or psychiatrist who can provide counseling, therapy, or medication if needed.

Workplace depression is a complex and pervasive problem, but it doesn’t have to be forever. Knowing the symptoms and understanding the impact of workplace depression is the first step to overcoming this challenge. Remember that your mental health should be your priority and that you can take steps to improve your well-being, even if it means making changes to your job or even your entire career path. Recognizing that your job may be contributing to your depression is the first step to taking control of your situation and getting the support you need. You got this!

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