How to Work With People Diagnosed With Major Depressive Disorder

Depression is actually more common than most people think, which should not be surprising, as we all must deal with considerable stress in our lives. One study conducted by researchers at the Harvard Medical School found that of the nearly 10 percent of adults in this country estimated to suffer from depression each year, most experience symptoms of major depression. Dealing with someone who is severely depressed can be difficult. However, if you prepare yourself and know what you are dealing with, you can help the person even if it is someone with whom you work.

Instructions

• 1

  Research the facts about depression (see Resources). Educating yourself can help you to understand the person better. One of the first things about which you need to be aware is that a depressed person cannot help how she is feeling. Read up on all the information you can about depression, its symptoms, causes and treatment.

• 2

  Learn to recognize the signs that the person is having a particularly bad day. While the symptoms of depression can vary from person to person, an overwhelming sadness is frequently one of the first signs. Lack of interest in work may eventually become obvious as well. A depressed co-worker or professional colleague may appear irritable or seem to lack stamina. You may notice that the person has difficulty concentrating, is unable to make decisions, or is becoming increasingly forgetful on the job. If these traits are out of character for the individual, knowing what to expect can help you to react in a more empathetic rather than judgmental manner.

• 3

  Practice patience. Reach out to the person so that he does not feel alone. People often fall into a deeper depression if they feel isolated from the others around them. Let the depressed person know that you are there for him. Communicate with the individual, encouraging him to take care of himself both physically and emotionally.

• 4

  Walk with the person during the lunch hour or a break. This is one way to work on building a bond of trust between the two of you. Simply walking beside the person even when she might not be in the mood for conversation might help her to feel less awkward. She may find comfort just in your proximity. Walking is also a way to keep a depressed person physically active.

• 5

  Offer to help complete work that the person may have been putting off. Do not make the individual feel guilty about what is not getting done. Instead openly discuss which tasks need to be completed and what you can do to help. By working on developing a caring rapport, you should be able to do this without the person becoming offended. If the individual continues to do his job without evading any of his responsibilities, you might want to give him some space. Sometimes a depressed person just wants to be left alone for a little while, especially during a period of added stress at work. Let him know that you are there if he needs help or wants to talk, but do not force the issue.