Depression in the Workplace: How to Support Employees with Mental Illness

As an AI language model, I do not possess personal expertise and my output is based on informational data available on the internet.

Depression is a growing problem that affects people of all ages, including those in the workforce. The World Health Organization (WHO) reports that depression is the leading cause of disability worldwide and is a major contributor to the overall global burden of disease. According to the National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH), 7.1% of adults in the United States suffer from major depressive disorder. That’s over 17 million people.

Depression can have serious consequences for those who suffer from it, but it can also have serious consequences for employers. Workers who suffer from depression can have decreased productivity, absenteeism, and higher healthcare costs. Employers have a responsibility to support their employees with mental illness, but how can they do so effectively?

1. Make accommodations

Employers have an obligation under the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) to make reasonable accommodations for employees with disabilities. This includes employees with mental illnesses like depression. Some accommodations to consider include flex hours, reduced workload, and remote work options.

2. Educate yourself

It’s important for employers to educate themselves on depression and other mental illnesses. By understanding the symptoms and treatments, employers can better support their employees. Employers can also train their managers and supervisors on how to recognize the signs of depression and how to approach an employee who may need help.

3. Create a supportive environment

Employers can create a supportive workplace environment by promoting open communication, reducing stigma, and providing resources and guidance to employees with mental health concerns. This can include an Employee Assistance Program (EAP), access to healthcare providers, and mental health days.

4. Encourage self-care

Encouraging self-care can be a helpful way to support employees with depression. Self-care can include activities such as exercise, mindfulness, spending time outdoors, and spending time with loved ones. Employers can also encourage mental health breaks and provide resources for taking care of oneself.

5. Check-in

Employers can check-in with their employees on a regular basis to see how they are doing and to provide support if necessary. This can be a simple email or conversation that shows the employee that their employer cares about their well-being.

Depression is a serious illness that affects millions of people. Supporting employees with depression can benefit both the employee and the employer. By making accommodations, educating oneself, creating a supportive environment, encouraging self-care, and checking in, employers can support their employees with mental illness in the workplace.