A common problem

Roger is showing signs of depression and, like many people, doesn't want to admit this at work for fear of losing his job, or the stigma that goes along with being depressed. But it is a common illness: at any point in time, 1 in 20 adults is experiencing a “major” depression, while a similar number will have a less serious depression.

Depression is a mood difficulty that means more than just feeling down. It might start with a death in the family, relationship break-up or pressure at work, and just get progressively worse. Depression can also sometimes start all of a sudden, for no obvious reason. Whatever the onset, depression interferes with a person's normal functioning and that includes how they are able to do their job.

Effects of depression on work

Depression is related to increased sick-leave, and contributes to lower productivity, with more mistakes or even accidents. Associated with higher increased staff turn-over, depression is costly for all. Beyondblue, the national depression institute, estimates that 6 million working days are lost nationally each year due to depression.

It is therefore in employers' interests to recognise the symptoms of depression and promote a culture supportive of staff experiencing psychological or emotional difficulties. As with other mental illnesses, early intervention is most effective. Being able to ask for help, without the fear that you are going to be seen as weak or crazy, will help people deal with depressive illnesses before they lead to mistakes, accidents, job losses or even self-harm.

Getting help

After listening to Nick, Janine became more concerned about Roger's welfare, and noticed that he had become more withdrawn and moody in the past fortnight, not caring much about his appearance or talking to others. Knowing how hard it can be for many men to talk about their feelings even with their mates, Janine thought Roger might be more comfortable talking to someone who wasn't his direct boss.

She reassured Roger that his position was not under threat. “Roger, you are a real asset to the sales team. But you seem to be struggling a bit, and it is my job to support you in any way I can. I would like you to talk to someone about it – here at work, in confidence, or maybe with your own doctor. It might be that you need some time off, or maybe talking things through will be enough to sort out what's bothering you.” Janine discussed the options with Roger and they agreed she would make an appointment for him with the human resources department as a starting point. Janine offered to go with him first off if that would help.

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