Blue Monday is in the third week of January and this year it falls on 18th 2021. Blue Monday is thought to be the most depressing day of the year. A combination of cold miserable weather, post-Christmas blues and credit card bills added to the glumness.
Mental Health
The mental health charity ‘Mind’ states that depression affects people differently and having a specific day to highlight depression is incorrect as it can affect anyone at any time and on any day.
Depression is a serious mental health condition. It is true that January reflects melancholy in the UK due to the wet, cold and dark weather; people may feel low, however this may also be a reflection of SAD – Seasonal Affective Disorder – a winter depression. Symptoms include low mood, feeling lethargic and becoming more irritable. For those with a longer term depression, symptoms are similar but additional elements include tearful, low self-esteem, great sadness, anxiety and irritable.
Depression and poor mental health amongst staff continues to remain high due to the Covid 19 pandemic. It is important employees have a strong support network, particularly from their employer.
What can we do to support our colleagues who suffer from depression?
When a colleague reaches out for support, there are a number of resources management can turn to for help.
Regular zoom contact.
Management should schedule 121 meetings with staff who are particularly at high risk of poor mental health. This is to enable effective supervision of employee wellbeing.
Employee assistance programme (EAP). Many employers have this benefit. It is a paid for service by the Company. EAP assists employees with personal problems through trained telephone counselling offering emotional support.
Risk Assessments. Management should carry out mental health risk assessments to identify employees most at risk. Management should hold regular meetings with staff most likely to be at risk and require urgent attention. Template assessment is available from the Quest Health and Safety Library.
Health and welfare policy. Ensure that the policy highlights employees health and welfare is a priority at every stage during their employment. Employers should act with compassion and support and to stay true to the policy. The employee should be treated with dignity and respect.
The article is for general information purposes only and should you require any further assistance on the matter please do not hesitate to call our advice-line team on 01455 852028.
