Returning to work aids recovery in depressed employees
Depression and anxiety are now the most common reasons for people starting to claim long-term sickness benefits, and the modern workplace is often blamed for the increased rates of these illnesses.
A study recently published in the journal Occupational Medicine demonstrates that returning to work can aid recovery in depressed employees [1]. The study followed more than 500 people, from a variety of industries, who were unable to work due to depression. It was found that:
- both a full and partial return to employment significantly promoted recovery.
- the flexibility of employers with regards to changing an employee’s work tasks was particularly effective in promoting recovery.
The Society of Occupational Medicine emphasises the need for employers to be sensitive to the requirements of depressed employees, and to consider a range of interventions that might facilitate their return to work.
"Better access to occupational health services and psychological support are essential if employees with depression and anxiety are to get back to work quickly," comments Dr Gordon Parker, President of the Society of Occupational Medicine. "Employers are often frightened of contacting an employee whose sick note says 'depression' for fear of being accused of harassment, but sympathetic contact with the employee and early help through occupational health can identify the most appropriate support. Occupational health services are ideally placed to advise managers and employees on the best return to work plan and should be involved early in the management of the employee's absence".
The study echoes the findings of Dame Carol Black's review “Working for a healthier tomorrow” [2], which recognised that for most people work has a positive effect on their long-term health.
Order or download Rethink's 'Work and mental illness' factsheet.
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