While symptoms such as irritability, absenteeism, decreased productivity and low energy might more often than not be associated with a bored and unmotivated employee, they can also be signs of something more serious – depressed employees.

When your most gregarious and enthusiastic employee suddenly becomes aloof and withdrawn, chances are that they are going through a depressing phase in their life. Managers often get perplexed at how they should approach such situations. On the one hand, production and efficiency should continue at all conditions, but on the other hand, there is also the case of understanding what the employee is going through and coming up with ways to reduce their burden.

In this article, we look at the recommended ways to treat a depressed employee in the workplace. The strategies can change from workplace to workplace, but they are basically the same.

Don’t Wait for Them to Come to You

In an ideal situation, managers would want employees to come up to them. But the odds are currently stacked against them. Most depressed employees with failing mental health would rather eat dirt than have this conversation with their managers. Part of this approach comes with the insecurity depression can put patients through.

Employees are also aware of the repercussions that might follow after disclosure, like being teased, discriminated against and overly scrutinized. It is for managers to step up here and ensure that all employees are given the assurance and security they require. Once that is provided, concrete steps can be taken to reach out to employees in a form slump.

Recognize How Depression Impacts Work

Most leaders have a set of employees they wish they could clone and another set they wish they could clobber. A slacker has just as much chance of being depressed as a superstar. The most noticeable aspect of depression is a change in performance standards and the general behavior of the employee.

Some changes you might see here are:

  • Increased errors
  • Trouble concentrating
  • Indecisiveness
  • Irritability
  • Unfinished projects
  • Forgetfulness
  • Loss of interest in work or socializing with colleagues
  • Tiredness/fatigue

Offer Them an Olive Branch

Managers aren’t certified therapists to be talking about or diagnosing medical issues. As a manager, you should talk about the change in performance and behavior and show them an olive branch. Give them the secure environment they need and tell them about an in-house therapist you have or any other way you can help them out.

We at JS Benefits Group have worked with numerous clients to develop ways to treat depressed employees in the workplace. You can get in touch with JS Benefits Group immediately to discuss and devise a plan.