How do employees and managers perceive depression: a worksite case study.

BACKGROUND

The impact of depression in the workplace is significant. If managers and employees understood depression better they could assist those with depression to achieve optimal work performance.

METHOD: The case study was a medium-sized, privately owned forest products company located in western Canada. Individual interviews were used to explore the views of employees and managers about depression and its impact on work performance.

FINDINGS: Suggest that how one perceives workplace support for depression is influenced by the interaction of the following factors: a) knowledge and understanding of depression, b) roles and responsibilities within the work environment, and c) perceptions of work role boundaries.

CONCLUSION

Better links are needed between employees and managers to enhance workplace collaborations and achieve optimal work performance. The implementation of mental health support programs and the vocational role of occupational therapy in addressing the impact of depression in the workplace are discussed.