Depression and work - How to deal with depression in the work environment?

Until recently it was said "either business or people." It's time to move away from such thinking and be clear - business is people. Depression is a serious mental disorder characterized by feelings of sadness, loss of interest, fatigue and problems with concentration and sleep. It is also often accompanied by feelings of hopelessness and suicidal thoughts. Depression can affect anyone, regardless of age or social standing. Its prevalence in the workplace is undeniable, posing a serious challenge to employees and staff alike. Depression can lead to decreased productivity, job burnout, increased absenteeism and difficulties in relationships with co-workers.

Depression and the work environment: how can mental health affect work life?

People struggling with depression often experience difficulties in performing daily duties, which can lead to reduced productivity and problems meeting deadlines. In addition, the development of depression can result in increased absenteeism and absenteeism from work - which makes the boss start to have a problem as well.

In the 21st century, it is necessary to look at the team as a community, rather than individuals who are in no way connected to each other. In a time-pressured and competitive environment, it is important to understand that people perform better when they are happy. Since the pandemic, there has been a growing awareness of promoting a healthy environment and supporting employees in dealing with depression. 

Symptoms of depression in the workplace: how to recognize depressive states in a co-worker?

Recognizing depressive conditions in co-workers is important both from the perspective of the affected individual and from the point of view of the boss or HR department. We are far from recommending that anyone self-diagnose an employee, and absolutely should not do so, as this is an extremely sensitive area. However, there are a few signs that can help identify potential depression problems in a team. 

First, it is worth noting changes in behavior, such as withdrawal, excessive work delays, decreased productivity or constant complaints of fatigue.

 Second, it's worth noting if a co-worker avoids social interaction, has difficulty making friends or shows aggression for no apparent reason.

Third, listen to comments about personal problems, especially if they relate to difficulties in family or life relationships. It is worth being sensitive to these signals, but remember that recognizing depression in others is a delicate task and full respect and discretion should be maintained. A responsible supervisor who wants to keep the team in the best possible shape should make every effort to take care of the mental health of his or her charges.

Sending an employee in poor mental condition to take a layoff or work remotely is not the solution. First, create a comfortable environment that minimizes stress at work and motivates them to perform their duties. 

Review of employee's rights protecting them from depression-related discrimination

Protecting employees' rights against depression-related discrimination is a key part of ensuring equal treatment in the workplace. There are various laws, both at the national and international level, that protect employees from this type of discrimination.

At the international level, the International Labor Organization's Convention 111 deals with the elimination of discrimination in work and employment. According to this convention, there should be no discrimination based on an employee's depression.

In Europe, European Union Directive 2000/78/EC prohibits discrimination on the basis of disability - including that related to depression. Many European countries also have their own national laws on the matter.

If an employee's rights to protection against depression-related discrimination are violated, various steps can be taken to defend oneself. 

1. Interview with the employer: For starters, it's worth trying to resolve the issue internally. Talking to your employer or HR personnel can help clarify the situation and find a solution to the problem.
2. Take advantage of available internal procedures: in some cases, the workplace may have dispute resolution procedures or mechanisms that are worth using to resolve the issue.
3. Consultation with a lawyer: If a satisfactory solution cannot be reached internally, it is worth consulting a lawyer specializing in labor rights. Such a professional can help you understand whether your labor rights have been violated and what further steps are possible.
4. Notification to relevant authorities: Depending on the country and jurisdiction, there are agencies and bodies responsible for enforcing equality and labor rights laws. You can report violations of your rights to such institutions.
5. Consider a lawsuit: If the violation of labor rights is serious and cannot be resolved by other means, you may consider bringing a lawsuit against the employer.

Depression at work: how can working people with depression feel better?

Despite a change in attitudes toward employees with depression - and greater sensitivity to their needs - this problem continues to limp along in Poland. Working conditions often leave much to be desired, causing employees to have to seek help on their own, without making their boss aware of their affliction. To make the corporate reality less ominous, it is worth reaching out for external means of assistance.

1. Therapy: Psychological therapy, like cognitive-behavioral therapy or interpersonal therapy, can help cope with depression. The right professional for people with depression to understand and change negative thoughts and behaviors.
2. Drugs: In some cases, treatment of depression may be based on antidepressants. It is worth consulting a psychiatrist who can assess whether pharmacotherapy is appropriate.

What for depression without a prescription? Often people who seek help without a doctor, choose special preparations for depression Such as bpc-157, semax, noopept or selank. Peptides and synthetic compounds show effects that can reduce the negative effects of depression - without any side effects. This distinguishes them from psychotropic drugs. Before deciding - which peptide I will use, it is necessary to carefully study the effect of a particular preapart. Often the substances are administered intramuscularly - which is also important to keep in mind. In addition, you need to use the right substance for your needs, as each will have different effects and support different areas of the body.