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Depression is often work related, but fear of derailing a career is enough to stop many from asking for help at work which can make the problem worse.
In reality, the reverse can be true. If you tackle any problem or an illness as early as possible, the sooner and the more likely you will be able to get back to being at your best and pushing your career forward.
Diagnosing depression
People often don't realise that they are depressed or how depressed they are, because it can come on so gradually. They may try to struggle on and cope with feelings of depression by keeping busy, making them even more stressed and exhausted. Physical pains such as constant headaches or sleeplessness then start which can be the first signs of depression.
We all feel fed up, miserable or sad at times. Feeling sad is a normal reaction to experiences that are stressful or upsetting. These feelings don't usually last more than a week or two, and they don't interfere too much with our lives. Sometimes there's a reason, sometimes not.
When these feelings continue, or dominate and interfere with your life and make it difficult or impossible to deal with day-to-day activities such as your job, it can become an illness. This illness is called depression.
Classic symptoms of depression include:
- feelings of worthlessness or guilt
- poor concentration
- loss of energy and fatigue
- thoughts of suicide or preoccupation with death
- loss or increase of appetite and weight
- a disturbed sleep pattern
- slowing down (both mentally and physically)
- agitation (restlessness or anxiety).
If you are experiencing some of these, you could be depressed. If your feelings aren't getting any better, you should go to see your GP.
Taking positive steps
If you're feeling depressed after being made redundant, being fired or just because your job is getting on top of you there are things you can do to turn your mood around.
For instance you may wish to consider:
- changing your career
- spending more time with your family
- assessing your spending
- focusing on what really matters in life
- rediscovering your personal values
If you feel the reasons for your depression are financial, there are various ways to top up your income including:
- claiming what you are entitled to from the government
- renting a room in your house or cutting out unnecessary purchases
- using the Internet to sell your unwanted goods
Asking for help
There is a vast range of support available so speak to your GP to find out what could best help you.
Therapy is offered on the NHS as well as self-funding mental health charities and support groups. Local clergy may be a good option if you're looking for someone to talk to and community health centres and clinics frequently offer low-cost care.
As an employee, it's common to have access to psychological treatment through your employer or through private medical insurance.
The sooner you get help, the sooner you can be back to feeling your best at work and every area of your life.
You can find out more information on the causes and cures of depression at www.depressioncanbefun.com.