Discover three ways to create a mentally safe workplace for your team

For 2021 World Health Day, #letstalk about Depression. Depression is a mood disorder that causes a constant feeling of sadness and loss of interest. And when you are suffering from depression, it is difficult to carry out daily tasks.

Millions of Australians suffer from depression. New data from Roy Morgan identifies that in the third quarter of 2020, over 3.8 million Australians were suffering from depression during the nationwide lockdown. 1

Sadly, many suffer in silence. Over the years, there's a stigma around depression and mental health in general. But to get people the help they deserve, we need to break the stigma and talk about depression.

How to tell if someone is suffering from depression? Here are the common signs and symptoms:

Behaviour:

1. He/She is not going out anymore

2. He/Sher is not getting things done at work

3. He/Sher is withdrawing from close family and friends

4. He/Sher is relying on alcohol and sedatives

5. He/Sher is not doing the usually enjoyable activities

6. He/She is unable to concentrate

Feelings:

1. overwhelmed

2. guilty

3. irritable

4. frustrated

5. lacking in confidence

6. unhappy

7. indecisive

8. disappointed

9. miserable

10. sad

Thoughts:

1. 'I’m a failure.'

2. 'It’s my fault.'

3. 'Nothing good ever happens to me.'

4. 'I’m worthless.'

5. 'Life’s not worth living.'

6. 'People would be better off without me.'

Physical:

1. tired all the time

2. sick and run down

3. headaches and muscle pains

4. churning gut

5. sleep problems

6. loss or change of appetite

7. significant weight loss or gain

(*2)

Please note that this list is not to be used as a diagnosis tool. If you are worried and would like more information, please contact your GP for advice and assistance.