As a leader, you should take steps to stir depressed team members into action, encourage them to fight against the disease, and find ways to decrease its level in the workplace by creating a positive work environment.
With more than 300 million people affected by depression worldwide, 80% don’t receive any treatment. Why? Many just don’t want to admit they need help, trying hard to look happy: they spend time with friends, travel, and continue working full-time.
Here’s the question:
Are you sure none of your employees suffers from high-functioning depression?
The problem is, it remains a taboo subject in most workplaces. Managers simply don’t know what to do with depressed employees and how to help them. As a leader, you need to address the issues of your organization’s culture and encourage workers to talk about mental health with their managers, as well as train managers to help those with dysthymia.
It’s not only about the human side of business. According to reports, workplace depression is a major issue for economies. Mental health problems of employees cost billions to organizations worldwide, with the most negative impact coming from managers who stay at work while depressed and try hard to boost productivity.
As an employer, how do you fight the stigma of depression in the workplace? It is essential to educate yourself as an employer and for your employees know their rights. Click here to learn how you can be a good leader for your stressed or depressed co-workers.
