So often when people come to see me they are incredibly anxious about their work. Often, particularly with men, the first time they have told anyone how terrible they feel is when they explain to me their “problems” at work. This often results in tears and admissions that they are not sleeping and constantly have their stomach churning. Our appointment is also often the first time that anyone has suggested to them that they may be unwell.
The problem about depression, as I see it in my practise, is that often the person that is unwell is too unwell to get themselves off to a doctor. It really needs those that see them every day to have the courage firstly to raise “depression” as a possibility and secondly the fortitude to make sure the person goes and gets a medical opinion.
Whilst it is part of my job to be honest with people and tell them if I think they need to see a Doctor I am sure it is not easy to tell a friend or family member that you think they may need help. Isn’t it funny how if someone has a temperature we are all quick to think they have “swine flu” and feel comfortable in suggesting they go to the doctor but if someone is clearly not acting “right” we really struggle to raise this with them .
You might ask what this has got to do with employment law – it has everything to do with employment law. Many problems that occur at work could clearly be stopped from becoming insurmountable if people addressed possible mental health issues. Work is not the only cause of depression (although it is recognised as being a possible stressor). Many times it becomes clear that it is someone’s personal life (for example a relationship break up) that has lead to an episode of depression which then spills into their employment.
The problem is, if its not treated, people lose the relationship and lose the job because the problem flows into their work.
John Kirwan’s website sets out a whole list of things to look for. Key signs are constantly feeling down or hopeless and having little interest or pleasure in doing things you used to enjoy. Possible signs include feeling tired all the time or general loss of energy, sleep problems – too much, or too little, weight loss or gain, problems with concentration and anxiety.
For goodness sake take a look at the website. If someone you know is exhibiting these signs – raise it with them. You may save their job.
