What I want you to know about depression and anxiety in the workplace

In our new series, we're sharing the first-hand insights from a wide range of individuals about what life in the workplace looks like for them. These candid, often anonymised, personal accounts serve to highlight the nuances we might miss and how we can better support their needs with our DEI efforts.

In this piece, we hear from someone with depression and anxiety.

Being employed can be literally life-saving

Mental health issues are often invisible and generally attack self-esteem, so they can be extremely isolating to experience. Common symptoms include withdrawing from socialising, hobbies, and a dip in activity, creating a vicious cycle where you aren't as involved in daily life, so you withdraw from people more, so you become less involved… At the bottom of that spiral of self-doubt can be a firm, life-ending, stop.

Being employed keeps you at a level of (almost) obligatory activity – particularly if it feels as though what you're doing is important or making a difference to lives around you. It provides structure to your day, and enforced socialisation.

It might sound cruel and unusual, but almost being forced to interact keeps a sense of normality, when it might feel that everything else from ‘normal life’ to ‘happiness’ is crumbling away.

Of course, there is a limit to this – and that limit is individual. But speaking personally, I always wanted to continue working even at my worst. In work, I know what the social rules are, I know when I’ve done a good job. Producing something of quality gives a sense of purpose and satisfaction, too – like I’m not a complete failure.

Some might question this as presenteeism, and yes, in a way, it is. But this, again, boils down to an individual question of adjusting the work versus business needs. What’s reasonable for one person might not work for someone else.

This is where keeping open lines of communication is so important.

If I were having a particularly difficult day, knowing that there are structured support systems in place could be a significant relief. Employee Assistance Programs (EAPs) and Occupational Health services can provide crucial support through counselling, therapy sessions, and sometimes even legal advice, making them invaluable resources for employees struggling with mental health issues.

This kind of support not only helps in managing symptoms but also in reducing the stigma around mental health in the workplace. It shows that the employer takes the well-being of their employees seriously, contributing positively to the overall work environment.

I want to be treated normally

Despite the challenges that come with depression and anxiety, I want to be seen and treated as a capable individual. I’m often actually more resilient to change and challenge than others – after all, I’ve generally been through much worse.

It’s important for colleagues and managers to understand I might have specific needs at times, but treating me with the same respect and expectations as others can help in maintaining my self-esteem and motivation.

The first time a line manager told me, “Are you OK? Just cry if you need to,” rather than deflecting and uncomfortably suggesting I “go somewhere to calm down” was frankly life changing. That someone was willing to be comfortable with the discomfort was so affirming; I suddenly wasn’t a burden or a distraction but a person.

Understanding that emotional responses can be unpredictable and heightened by depression and anxiety is a powerful piece of acceptance and tolerance. It's crucial, too, to understand that my responses – such as being more sensitive to feedback or irritated by minor inconveniences – aren’t personal or often, even relevant.

Patience and understanding from colleagues during these moments can make a significant difference, allowing me to manage my reactions and regain composure without additional stress

I want to be perfect, it’s hard for me to not be likewise

Letting people down or making a mistake is normal and human. When I am in a more balanced and stable place, I understand that, and (sometimes!) celebrate mistakes. However, my need for perfection means admitting that I need help sometimes feels like an admission of failure, especially when I am striving to meet my own (often unrealistic) standards. Accepting help is a challenge because it involves acknowledging that I can’t always handle things on my own.

Saying no is another area where I struggle. Whether it’s additional responsibilities at work or social commitments, the fear of letting others down or appearing incapable can make it difficult to decline. This often leads to over-commitment, which can exacerbate stress and anxiety.

The fear of making mistakes can also be paralysing. It often leads to excessive double-checking and procrastination which can hinder productivity.

Understanding from colleagues and supervisors that it’s okay to make mistakes—as they are natural parts of the learning and development process—can alleviate a great deal of pressure.

Your support means more than you might realise

The support from co-workers and management can have a profound impact on employees dealing with depression and anxiety. Simple acts of kindness, such as checking in or offering a listening ear, can significantly boost morale and help in feeling understood and valued. It's important for employers to foster an inclusive and supportive work environment where everyone feels safe to express themselves and seek help when needed.

While the journey with depression and anxiety is deeply personal and full of challenges, the workplace can play a pivotal role in supporting mental health. By fostering an environment of understanding and support, employers can greatly mitigate the effects of these conditions on their employees' professional and personal lives.