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Battling the BluesPresented by

CIGNA Employee Assistance Program

Copyright 2008 CIGNA HealthCare – Confidential & Privileged – Not for Distribution

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Seminar Goals

Know the definition, signs and symptoms of depression

Effects on workplace, children and family

Obstacles to seeking help

Treatments for depression

How to talk to a depressed person about getting help

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What is Depression?

Definition of depression

Types of depression

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Signs and Symptoms of Depression

Sadness

Feelings of extreme guilt

Suicidal ideas

Insomnia

Diminished interest in activities

Difficulty concentrating

Anxiety

Appetite changes

Weight changes

Irritability

Mood swings

Distorted thinking

Low self-esteem

Feelings of hopelessness

Exhaustion

Feelings of helplessness

Agitation

Social withdrawal

Indecisiveness

Decreased sexual interest

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Effects of Depression in the Workplace

Decreased productivity

Morale problems

Lack of cooperation

Safety problems, accidents

Absenteeism

Frequent complaints of being tired all the time

Complaints of unexplained aches and pains

Alcohol and drug abuse

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Effects of Depression on Children and Family

A parent with depression:

Shows less warmth toward children

Is less involved with them

Provides less guidance and supervision

Is less nurturing

Is more likely to have marriage conflicts

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Effects of Depression on Children and Family (cont.)

The child:

Learns to interpret the world as a negative place

Has a negative role model

Has lower self-esteem

Is more easily influenced by peers

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Obstacles to Seeking Treatment

Embarrassment, stigma of mental illness: “Only crazy people go to shrinks.”

Belief that depression is a personal weakness: “I just need to buckle down and deal with it.”

Worry that “It costs too much,” or “I don’t have time.”

Belief that treatment won’t help

Feeling that “I don’t deserve help.”

Inability to take action (severe depression)

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Treatments for Depression

Inpatient

• If danger to self or others

• Should include both medication and psychotherapy

Outpatient

• Psychotherapy – talk therapy, one-to-one, group and/or marital

• Medication

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Need to be aware of dual diagnosis e.g. alcohol/drugs and depression

About 80% recover with appropriate treatment

Improvement usually seen in weeks

Treatments for Depression (cont.)

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What Can a Supervisor Do?

Learn about depression

Know where to get help

Recognize signs that may be depression-related

Discuss changes in work performance and listen to concerns

Don’t diagnose the problem

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What Can a Supervisor Do? (continued)

Recommend professional consultation

Tell employee about EAP

Be flexible to accommodate treatment

Take comments about suicide seriously and consult with the EAP yourself

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How to Talk to a Depressed Partner, Friend or Co-worker About Seeking Help

Say “You don’t have to feel that way. There are effective treatments.”

Offer to research benefits coverage and how it works (e.g. prior authorization).

Offer to find a provider; schedule or take him or her to an appointment.

Help get a prescription filled.

Encourage staying in treatment and/or continuing to take medication.

If person is suicidal, call the therapist or local mental health emergency services.