Feeling Depressed? Go to Work, Says Harvard Psychologist

Companies who don’t address employees’ mental health might be sabotaging themselves, a new study shows.

Adults with social anxiety and depression tend to work fewer hours, according to a recent study published in Psychiatric Research & Clinical Practice.

‘The Less We Do, the Less Likely We Are to Experience Things That Make Us Feel Better’

A person who struggles with some anxious tendencies might find it challenging to go to work, give presentations, and interact with co-workers, but ultimately isn’t plagued by their decision to do so.

“For the most part, we can pull it together and do it and feel better afterwards,” says Natalie Datillo, a clinical psychologist and instructor at Harvard Medical School. “With folks who struggle with an anxiety disorder, they don’t feel better. They spend the rest of the day overthinking or ruminating or obsessing on how they did, what are other people thinking.”

If they are depressed, harsh self-criticism can kick-in, as well. This can cause them to leave early, call in sick, and self-isolate even more.

Ironically, the more they avoid work, the more severe their anxiety and depression symptoms can become, Datillo says.

“The less we do and the more we avoid, the less likely we are to experience things that make us feel better,” she says.

‘Work Has a Protective Effect on Our Mental Health’

Working can provide some safeguards that are often overlooked.

“Work has a protective effect on our mental health,” she says. “Overall, working is good for us from a mental health standpoint. It provides structure for our life, it gives us something to do, it allows us an opportunity to interact with other people, not to mention it allows us to have an income.”

CEOs and Employees Both Are Negatively Affected When Poor Mental Health Persists

CEOs and employees both are negatively affected when poor mental health persists, says Datillo. Depression and anxiety are treated differently, but they both cause people to isolate, she says.

“What comes with avoidance is isolation and withdrawal and limiting our opportunity to have positively reinforcing experiences,” she says.

Why Companies Should Care About Employees’ Mental Health

By caring about their employees’ mental health, companies might actually be helping their bottom line.

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FAQs

Q: How can I help my employees with mental health?

A: Encourage open communication, provide resources and support, and offer flexible work arrangements.

Q: What are some signs of depression and anxiety?

A: Common signs of depression and anxiety include changes in mood, sleep patterns, appetite, and social withdrawal.

Q: How can I prioritize my own mental health?

A: Prioritize self-care, practice mindfulness, and seek professional help if needed.

Conclusion

A Harvard psychologist suggests that going to work can be beneficial for people experiencing depression and anxiety. By working, individuals can gain structure, interact with others, and have an income. Companies that prioritize their employees’ mental health may see an increase in productivity and overall well-being, ultimately benefiting the organization as a whole.