A recent study published in the British Medical Journal showed that in a toxic workplace, employees are 300% more likely to experience major depressive symptoms.
The study, conducted by researchers from the University of South Australia, began by noting that “[m]ajor depression affects an estimated 300 million people across the world and has become a pervasive global burden across cultures. Major depression has a high risk of recurrence and leads to functional impairment, elevated morbidity and mortality, and destructive social and economic consequences.”
Learn The Signs Of A Toxic Work Environment
The study followed over 1,000 people in Australia. Originally, the sample size was almost 4,000 people, but many were removed for being self-employed, temporary workers, or for already showing symptoms of depression.
An important factor in the study was whether or not co-workers were looking out for each other’s mental health. A Ladders article written by John Casey, author and global head of digital consulting agency Publicis.Sapient, had a list of behaviors to look out for:
- Work output slipping
- Voice change, or the lack of expression in spoken words
- Gradual, unexplained weight loss
- Empty eyes and dark circles that look lifeless
- Sudden lack of participation in pizza parties, office outings
But you also have to make sure that you are taking care of yourself too. Before you even start a job, check if the workplace seems toxic by asking questions about the company’s values or team dynamic and seeing how the interviewer reacts. You can also try to get a feel for how the employees interact with one and other.
If you think you’re stuck in a toxic workplace, try doing this:
- Wake up early: A May 2021 Harvard study found that starting your day even just an hour earlier than you currently do will decrease your chances of major depressive symptoms by 23%. Starting the day earlier will get your brain activated in time for work and give you some time to yourself. You could shower, read, or sit and enjoy a cup of coffee.
- Avoid working long hours: If you cut down on overtime by working as efficiently as possible during normal hours, you can also cut down your chances of depression. A Ladders article reported that among people who work late, “66% spent less time spent with family, 61% spent less time spent with a spouse, 53% spent less leisure time at home.” It is so important for a person’s mental health to be surrounded by love and support. The more time you spend with the people closest to you, the more your mood can improve.
- Educate yourself about mental health and your workplace benefits: There are so many resources online that can help you with depression or combat it before it begins, including the National Alliance on Mental Illness (1-800-950-6264), Anxiety and Depression Association of America (1-240-485-1001), and National Institute of Mental Health (1-866-615-6464).
