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"While a certain degree of stress in some situations, such as starting a new job, is perfectly normal, if it is getting out of hand it could be time to consult a professional."
Some personal issues can overwhelm an employee at work. In these
cases, organisations need to be doing as much as possible to create
a safe environment where these people are supported.
In particular, mental illness can affect an employee's well-being,
changing the way they interact with other members of an organisation
and people in their personal life. In these cases, they may be
selective when it comes to finding someone with whom to talk. With
employee assistance programmes, people have access to confidential
and trained support in these times of need.
According to research from the Mental Health Foundation, around 16
per cent of New Zealand adults are struggling with these issues.
That is more than half a million people that could benefit from
professional assistance.
How many New Zealanders suffer from depression?
The same report from the Mental Health Foundation revealed that
anxiety and depressive disorders are some of the most common mental
health issues faced by New Zealanders.
More than 14 per cent of people around the country have been
diagnosed with a disorder at least once in the past, but these
trends change notably when applied to different demographics.
The Mental Health Foundation found that women are much more
susceptible to these issues than men. Where almost 18 per cent of
New Zealand women have been diagnosed with depression at least once
in their lives, the figure for men is just over 10 per cent. Anxiety
disorders followed a similar trend, affecting significantly more
women.
What are the effects of depression?
A study produced by the Ministry of Health found there are further
effects to depression than just the immediate symptoms. The
organisation discovered these disorders are one of the most
significant contributors to 'health loss' around the country. Health
loss refers to the amount of time spent feeling well people miss out
on through injury or illness.
The Ministry of Health advocates the use of support services in
organisations to limit the negative effects of these illnesses.
Depression.org.nz detailed
some of the symptoms of depressive and anxiety disorders that should
prompt employees to seek specialist help. One warning sign the
organisation believes should prompt people to act is the feeling
they can't handle stress.
While a certain degree of stress in some situations - such as
starting a new job - is perfectly normal, if it is getting out of
hand it could be time to consult a professional.
OCP's network of trained and registered counsellors provides
organisations with a service that helps employees in these
situations.
Contact the team to find
out how we can help.
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