Coping at Work
Depression
I have a new perspective on life
"I was in a car accident. I had muscle pain and mental confusion, but they continued longer than they should have - I didn't know that I was actually developing depression. After repeated visits to the doctor, I asked to be screened for depression. My doctor said yes, I did have depression.
I began treatment with medication and had an immediate, positive reaction. I noticed right away that my physical pain and mental confusion were reduced, and I stopped experiencing the mild hallucinations I was suffering from, that I didn't know I was having until they were gone.
Cognitive behavioural therapy helped me the most with feeling better about myself and fixing my workplace relations. I have a new perspective of life and who I am. I'm committed to taking care of myself and paying attention to my needs, and working towards staying well."
Reprinted by permission of the National Post
More from Donna can be found in Working Through It
The following articles and sites focus on coping strategies to help employees in the workplace who may be experiencing mental health issues. The information contained in these articles does not constitute and should not be relied on as professional advice.
The following are links to resources that may be of interest to you. If you click on a link you may be entering a third-party website not maintained or controlled in any way by Great-West Life.
 | An article that provides suggestions for helping your supervisor support you during times when your mental health is compromised.
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 | A snapshot of one woman's experience of depression in the workplace with several valuable suggestions.
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| If you are experiencing a mental health issue, you may have the right to accommodation under certain circumstances. By approaching your conversation with the employer as a way to find the balance between your responsibilities and your rights, you can work together to find a solution that strikes the right balance.
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 | The articles here are related to the study being conducted by the University of Guelph's Centre for Families, Work & Well-Being.
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 | A series of videos designed to speak directly to people struggling with mental health issues. Real people share their experiences of working through times of mental health pressures at work, off work and returning to work.
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 | Strategies to assist employees who want to reach out or support a co-worker who may be experiencing mental health issues.
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 | Employee Assistant Programs (EAP) can be a valuable resource for employees, but they are not the answer to every personal, health or workplace issue. The Employee Assistance Society of North America generously prepared an objective and helpful outline so that you can consider where EAP may be helpful to you and your family.
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The information contained in the Workplace Strategies for Mental Health website is provided for general information only. It is not intended to be a substitute for medical advice. Always consult your physician or appropriate health-care provider with respect to your particular circumstances. Permission to use logo kindly provided by the owner.
This website is brought to you by the Great-West Life Centre for Mental Health in the Workplace. 