Recognising the signs of depression or anxiety in the workplace

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Recognising the signs of depression or anxiety in the workplace is extremely important right now. Research suggests that 1 in 5 Australians will at some time during the year, suffer from mental illness (Source: Australian Government Health Direct). And we know that the pressure is ramping up on people. With working from home, lock downs and the need to continue to perform whilst home schooling or caring for others.

Therefore, taking care of yourself is essential. In addition, recognising the signs of depression or anxiety in your co-workers is a skill that can make a difference right now.

What are the signs of depression or anxiety in the workplace?

We are not diagnosing. This is not therapy. We are not psychologists. This information is based on evidence and training from Mental Health First Aid Australia. Given this, there are a few signs of depression or anxiety in the workplace that you might keep an eye out for.

Signs of depression:

frequent self-criticism, self-blame, worry
a lack of energy or tiredness
difficulty concentrating or making decisions
crying spells, withdrawal from others, neglect of responisbilities
having sleep difficulties or sleeping too much

‘Frequently when a person does not recognise depression in their work colleague, they may judge them as lazy, self-centred, ‘not pulling their weight’, ‘not a team player’, having a poor work ethic or being incompetent’ (Kitchener, et al. 2017).

Signs of anxiety:

decreased concentration
indecisiveness or confusion
unrealistic or excessive worry
nervousness or feeling on the edge
irritability, impatience, anger
avoidance of situations
sleep disturbance

You might also notice physical signs such as the person: being short of breath and change in skin colour.

Source: Kitchener, B., Jorm, A., and Kelly, C. (2017) Standard Mental Health First Aid, Mental Health First Aid Australia.

man woman sitting in cafe mental health first aid

What to do if you recognise these signs?

Depression and anxiety in the workplace is not just a simple fix. One of the best things that you can do, is to take some valuable time out and learn Mental Health First Aid skills. The program is now available in a fully on-line format. The program gives you an evidence-based approach to recognise the signs and to approach the conversation with a person in the workplace.

Resources available

If a person is seeking help, most workplaces have employee assistance program (EAP). The person can also consult their GP. In addition, there are a lot of free and confidential resources and services available. Examples include:

Lifeline 24-Hour Counselling and Crisis Support Chat

www.lifeline.org.au/crisischat

Kids Help Line

www.kidshelp.com.au

Beyondblue Support Service

www.beyondblue.org.au/get-support

Mental Health First Aid

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