How depression affects work capacity and what to do if you are working while depressed. Should you tell your employer and how to keep your job.
Depression is one of the leading causes of incapacity for work in the world. According to WHO, it costs the global economy 1 trillion dollars in lost productivity annually. But most people with depression continue to work — silently suffering and hiding their condition.
There is no universal answer. Factors: how safe your work environment is, whether there's a real threat to your position, whether you need official accommodations. In some countries there is legal protection — depression as a "disability" grants the right to reasonable accommodations.
If you tell — focus on functional needs ("I need a more flexible schedule for a few weeks"), not on the diagnosis.
Break tasks into the smallest possible steps. Prioritize the critically important — the rest for later. Use periods of better functioning (for many this is morning). Minimize important decision-making during acute periods.
Treating depression is not only about wellbeing, but also about functioning. Research shows: effective treatment restores work productivity. This is an important argument for those who postpone seeking help.
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This article is for informational and educational purposes only. It is not a substitute for professional psychological advice, diagnosis, or treatment. If you are in a crisis situation, please reach out to a qualified mental health professional or a crisis helpline.