Depression is the number one contributor to disability statuses in the US. It affects 1 in 10 adults and impacts daily activities including getting up and going to work, and we don’t talk about it! Many people avoid discussing their depression because they don’t want to be seen as “weak” or “just going through a phase“; instead, they suffer silently or ignore the signs about how their depression affects them. Signs include:
Engaging in frequent reckless behavior. Is there evidence of substance abuse or a new extremely dangerous hobby? Many with depression show signs of having a “death wish”.
Being down, crying or self-loathing. Harsh self-criticism, unexplained crying and disappointing work is a strong indicator of depression.
Change in sleep pattern. If being late to work because of accidentally sleeping in or nodding off at the desk is a regular occurrence, it may be a sign of depression.
Lack of concentration. Frequent trouble with staying on task or meeting deadlines may be depression.
Change in appetite. Increased or decreased appetite and weight change and/or an avoidance of lunchtime is another sign of depression. In our next newsletter, we will cover addressing depression at the workplace. If you need help now, call the Depression/Suicide Hotline at 1-800-273-TALK (8255).
Disclaimer: Everyone has a “bad day”. Symptoms of depression are consistent and often follow a pattern. Showing a symptom once or twice does not mean it is depression.