The next thing I would like to talk about is how depression
can play a huge role within the Hidden Opportunities framework. As I have mentioned, due to a brain injury in
2004, I have been left with unseen problems and one of these now has been
depression. Everything went wrong for me
in the space of a couple of weeks and I broke. Making myself get out of bed and
leave the house was a massive effort for me.
OK, so I am making good progress in my recovery, but there are still
signs of weakness. Employers should not be put off by
someone's mental health problems and as in so many cases it is being scared of
the unknown that can be the major issue. Invariably (and with me a great deal) work is
one of the best ways to keep your mind active and not think about your problems.
Just because someone is low does not
mean that they are not a fantastic worker who will be committed and try their
hardest.
"Where possible, you should always try to
keep working. This is because people with depression often find that having
something meaningful to do and a reason to get up in the morning is very
helpful. Being with work colleagues, having a routine to the day, and the sense
of achievement in getting a job done are all good for your mental health."
(www.mentalhealth.org.uk)
It is for this reason (amongst others) that companies
should embrace, support and welcome such people. The company should realise
that giving people the chance to get back into the working environment will not
only support the individual, but also bring out the amazing and confident
employee that they are. Dan
How would the employer know that someone has depression? I can't imagine its something many people would openly mention when trying to find a job. And if it is known that an employee has depression, whether throughout the company or within the management team, how differently is the individual actually treated?
ReplyDeleteI'm sure most companies would be supportive if it was disclosed that an employee was suffering with depression.
The second paragraph reads more like reasons for the individual to seek work rather than for companies to actively seek employees with depression.
Good point well made. I realised afterwards that I didn't put anything about the company and how they could build their reputation and credibility by supporting people like this.
ReplyDeleteFrom my personal experience/knowledge, depression is seen as a really taboo subject that people would rather not have to talk about.
Ok, so this kind of thing can be brought up 'behind doors' but it is getting the support from those people that is invariably the biggest hurdle to jump