Working with someone diagnosed with major depressive disorder may be challenging at times. It is important to remember that people with major depression are not always depressed and most times feel normal, but when they are depressed their attitude, behaviors and work performance can change drastically.
Step 1
Get informed. Make yourself aware of how depression manifests in adults. Understand the typical triggers of a depressive episode, such as increased levels of stress, unhealthy lifestyle and changes in the season. Be aware that a person diagnosed with major depressive disorder is not always experiencing an episode of depression. Major depression may be the chronic illness your co-worker suffers from, but his experience of depressive episodes may occur as little as twice a year for a couple of weeks at a time. Be sensitive to the manifestation of the disorder. When your co-worker is going through an episode of depression, be supportive in a sensitive manner. Avoid taking his behaviors and attitude personally; it will most likely be the depression talking.
Step 2
Talk with her about her depression. Avoid telling her about other people you have known with depression and their experience. Instead spend time listening to your co-worker's experiences with depression. This will not only help her to feel supported it will also increase your awareness of the disorder and your ability to empathize with her. Keep the conversations you and your co-worker have had confidential.
Step 3
Encourage him to live a healthy lifestyle. Avoid drinking alcohol or talking drugs with him. According to the Mayo Clinic, the consumption of drugs and alcohol will cause the symptoms of depression to become more severe and harder to treat over time. Encourage your co-worker to go walking with you during the lunch hour. HelpGuide.org reports that physical activity is an effective antidepressant; it can raise the level of endorphins in the brain, which will reduce stress and boost mood. Avoid the sweets and pastries offered at work; instead spend time eating healthy lunches and snacks together.
Step 4
Encourage her to continue with treatment. Talk with her about the positive changes you have seen in her work performance and attitude since she began treatment. Be aware of the strides she is making in treatment. Acknowledge the setbacks and help her to understand that depression is not resolved overnight. Convey how different she was when she was not in treatment, noting how her behaviors and attitudes have changed.
Step 5
Be aware of the suicide risk of people with major depressive disorder. Pay attention to the warning signs of suicide such as talking about death, saying he would be better off dead, giving important possessions away, joking about taking his own life, engaging in risky behaviors and talking about ways to kill himself. If you suspect immediate suicidal tendencies, do not hesitate to take action. Call the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 1-800-273-TALK or call the police and remain with him until they arrive.
