Too Depressed To Work: What Can You Do?

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Everyone suffers from low mood from time to time, but when depression starts to interfere with your ability to work, it can be overwhelming and tough to cope with. And it can be challenging to explain to your employer that you can’t complete your usual work or need a break when you feel uncomfortable talking about your mental health.

A study by OnePoll found that 57% of American workers said they didn’t believe mental health to be a good enough reason to take time off work.

This is a worrying statistic as it shows that many of us are not comfortable enough to be open about our mental health concerns with our employers, despite it having a huge impact on our ability to work.

Changing the stigma around mental health in the workplace is key to helping people cope with depression while still being able to work.

If you are struggling with depression and trying to juggle work, we’ve got some tips for you to help manage it.

Talk to Compassionate People

It can be hard to reach out for help when you’re depressed, but it is an essential first step. Find someone in your life you trust and let them know how you feel, whether it’s a friend, family member, or colleague.

Talking about being too depressed to work can help ease the burden and support you.

If you have understanding and compassionate colleagues, sharing your struggles with them can be beneficial. They might be able to support you at work or provide an ear to listen if you need it.

Fill Your Free Time With Positive Activities

When you are feeling too depressed to work, the last thing you may want to do is engage in activities. However, doing things that make you feel good can help to boost your mood and give you a better outlook on life. This could be as simple as walking or reading a book in your free time.

Getting enough sleep and eating regular, balanced meals is also essential. This can help your body stay healthy and strong to work effectively.

Boosting Your Low Self Esteem

Depression can have a significant effect on your self-esteem. If you struggle with negative thoughts about yourself, practicing self-care and being kinder to yourself is essential.

Take some time each day to focus on positive affirmations or activities like journaling, meditating, or spending time in nature. These activities will help you recognize and focus on the few things you can control.

Connect one-on-one with a Psychiatrist

Talk To Your Employer

If your depression severely affects your ability to work, you must talk to your employer. As difficult as this may be for you or as scary as it might seem, talking to your employer can be the best thing you can do for yourself and your career.

Explain how mental health issues are impacting you and that you feel too depressed to work effectively, and try to devise a plan that works for both of you. Your employer may be able to provide support or adjust deadlines so that you don’t feel overwhelmed. You could also take a mental health day or some time off if necessary.

You may be surprised at how compassionate and understanding your employer can be – and how much better you’ll feel afterward.

What To Do If You’re Depressed Because of Work

Recognizing if your job might be causing your poor mental health or if it is making it worse is a huge step. If your work hurts your mental health, taking action is essential.

You might want to consider whether changing jobs or taking a break from work to focus on your mental health is the best move for you. Speak to your employer about any support they can offer, or look into other sources of help, such as therapy sessions and wellness classes.

Taking care of yourself should always be your priority, and you must remember that depression is not something you must go through alone. With the proper support, you can find ways to manage depression while functioning at work.

How to Tell Your Employer You Want to Resign

If you’ve decided that quitting your job is the best choice, it’s essential to ensure you do so correctly. Speak to your employer and tell them why you have made this decision, and explain how mental health issues impact your life.

Focus on what steps you’ll take to protect your mental health, and make sure you leave your job positively. Give your employer as much notice as possible and ensure that your work is finished before you move on to the next stage in your life.

Remember that quitting a job can be incredibly difficult and emotional. Still, it’s important to recognize when something isn’t working for you and take steps to ensure your mental well-being.

Knowing When to Seek Professional Help For Your Mental Illness

There are times when you may need professional help to manage your mental health and depression. If you feel overwhelmed or unable to cope, reach out for support from a trained counselor or therapist who can provide guidance and advice.

It’s also important to remember that there is no shame in seeking help if you’re struggling with depression or any other mental health issues. Take the time to find a mental health professional who can support you in your journey and provide the best care for your needs.

You might want to explore different therapy methods, such as cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) or mindfulness, which can help you understand and manage your symptoms.

Online therapy is a popular choice amongst many people, as it allows you to access support from the comfort and safety of your home. You can usually find a range of therapists on platforms such as BetterHelp or Talkspace who are experienced in providing mental health support.

Final Thoughts: Coping When You’re Too Depressed To Work

Depression can be tough to manage, and it’s important to recognize when you feel too overwhelmed or depressed to work.

It’s essential to look after your mental health and take the time to seek help if necessary. Talk to your employer about any support they can provide or explore other sources of help.

Remember that taking care of yourself should always be your number one priority. Quitting a job can be challenging, but it’s important to recognize when something isn’t working for you and find ways to manage depression while still functioning at work.

FAQs

What do I do if I’m too depressed to work?

If you’re feeling too overwhelmed or too depressed to work, it’s important to take the time to seek help and look after your mental health. Talk to your employer about any support they can provide or look into other sources of help, such as therapy sessions and wellness classes.

Can depression make you unable to work?

Yes, depression can make it difficult to work, as the symptoms of depression can have a significant impact on your ability to focus and stay motivated.

Should I quit my job if it’s affecting my mental health?

If your job hurts your mental health, it might be worth quitting. Make sure you speak to your employer and tell them why you made this decision, and explain how mental health issues impact your life. But take the time to consider all of your options (such as time off to recover)

What happens if I can’t work due to mental illness?

If you’re unable to work due to mental illness, you may be eligible for benefits such as disability or social security. It’s important to talk to your doctor or a mental health professional to understand the benefits you may be eligible for and understand your options.