Can you still work with clinical depression?

If your depression is caused by working too much or if it’s affecting your ability to do your job, you may need time off to recover. However, there’s evidence to suggest that taking prolonged time off work can make depression worse.

What is the prognosis for individuals with clinical depression?

With appropriate treatment, 70-80% of individuals with major depressive disorder can achieve a significant reduction in symptoms, although as many as 50% of patients may not respond to the initial treatment trial.

Is it okay to take time off work for depression?

Being able to spend some time concentrating on your own issues and working through your depression is great. But some people—especially those signed off work with depression, anxiety or stress—can feel guilty about this. It’s almost as if, because mental illness has few visible signs, it feels like the time off isn’t for a valid reason.

Can a doctor sign you off work with depression?

It’s almost as if, because mental illness has few visible signs, it feels like the time off isn’t for a valid reason. This isn’t the case at all. If your depression is severe enough for your doctor to sign you off sick, it’s a disability under the Equality Act 2010.

What are my rights when off work with depression?

You’ve been given some time off to heal—your boss and HR will respect that. Be sure to assert your employee rights with depression. If you’re signed off sick due to depression, you enjoy protection against discrimination in: Recruitment and selection. Pay, terms and conditions. Sickness absence. Training and development. Promotion. Dismissal.

How does depression affect a person at work?

As well as their mental health, depression can negatively affect their productivity and the organisation’s overall goal. While some may still consider it a ‘taboo’ subject, the majority of employers now recognise the impact it has on the workforce.

How long can you Be off work with depression?

Under the Equality Act 2010, any mental health condition that has long-term (12 months) or substantial effects is considered a disability. So how long can you be signed off with depression? For as long as you need to get better. Some employees may need to take time off for treatment while others could just require a couple of days away from work.

Is there a cure for depression in the workplace?

More than 80 percent of people with clinical depression can be successfully treated. With early recognition, intervention, and support, most employees can overcome clinical depression and pick up where they left off.