For Employers
Depression is More Than the Blues
Everyone gets the blues or feels sad from time to time. However, if a person
experiences these emotions intensely or for two weeks or longer, it may signal clinical
depression, a condition that requires treatment.
Clinical depression affects the total person--body, feelings, thoughts, and
behaviors-and comes in various forms. Some people have a single bout of depression; others
suffer recurrent episodes. Still others experience the severe mood swings of bipolar
disorder--sometimes called manic-depressive illness--with moods alternating between
depressive lows and manic highs.
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| SYMPTOMS OF DEPRESSION |
- Persistent sad or empty mood
- Loss of interest or pleasure in ordinary activities, including sex
- Decreased energy, fatigue, being slowed down
- Sleep disturbances (insomnia, early-morning waking or oversleeping)
- Eating disturbances (loss of appetite and weight, or weight gain)
- Difficulty concentrating, remembering, making decisions
- Feelings of hoplessness, pessimism
- Feelings of guilt, worthlessness, helplessness
- Thoughts of death or suicide; suicide attempts
- Irritability
- Excessive crying
- Chronic aches and pains that don't respond to treatment
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| Symptoms of Mania Include |
- Inappropriate elation
- Irritability
- Decreased need for sleep
- Increased energy and activity
- Increased talking, moving, and sexual activity
- Racing thoughts
- Disturbed ability to make decisions
- Grandiose notions
- Being easily distracted
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| In the Workplace, Symptoms of Depression Often May Be
Recognized by |
- Decreased productivity
- Morale problems
- Lack of cooperation
- Safety risks, accidents
- Absenteeism
- Frequent statements about being tired all the time
- Complaints of unexplained aches and pains
- Alcohol and drug abuse
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Get an Accurate Diagnosis
If five or more of the symptoms of depression or mania persist for more than two weeks,
or are interfering with work or family life, a thorough diagnosis is needed. This should
include a complete physical checkup and history of family health problems as well as an
evaluation of possible symptoms of depression. |
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