Stress management guidance for WTC workers, Sept 2001

NYC 9/11 Public Portal Document

• Persistent sad or'empty" mood -k • Feelings of hopelessness, p^simism • Loss of interest or pleasure in ordinary activities, including sex • Feelings of guilt, worthlessness, helplessness • Decre^ed energy, fatigue, being "slowed down" • Thoughts of death or suicide, suicide attempts • Sleep disturbances (insomnia, early-morning waking, or oversleeping) • Irritability • Excessive crying • Eating disturbances (loss of appetite and weight, or weight gain) • Chronic aches and pains that don't respond to treatment • Difficulty concentrating, remembering, making decisions In the Workplace, Symptoms of Depression Often May Be Recognized by • Decreased productivity • Morale problems • Lack of cooperation • Safety risks, accidents • Absenteeism • Frequent statements about being tired • Complaints of unexplained aches and pains • Alcohol and drug abuse Symptoms of Mania Include • Inappropriate elation • Irritability • Decreased need for sleep • Increased ene^ and activity • Increased talking, moving, and sexual activity • Racing thou^ts • Disturbed ability to make decisions all the time • Grandiose notions • Being easily distracted Get an Accurate Diagnosis If four or more of the symptoms of depression or mania persist for more than two weeks, or are interfering with work or family life, a thorough diagnosis is needed. This should include a complete physical checkup and history of family health problems as well as an evaluation of possible symptoms of depression. Depression Affects Your Employees John had been feeling depressedfor weeks though he didn't know why. He had lost his appetite andfelt tired all the time. It wasn't until he couldn't get out ofbed any more that his wife took him to a mental health professional for treatment. He soon showed improvement and was able to return to work. Depression can affect your workers' productivity, judgment, ability to work with others, and overall job performance. The inability to concentrate fully or make decisions ’may lead to costly mistakes or accidents. In addition, it has been shown that depressed individuals have high rates of absenteeism and _ are more likely to abuse alcohol and drugs, resulting in other problems on and off the job. Unfortunately, many depressed people suffer needlessly because they feel embarrassed, fear being perceived as weak, or do not recognize depression as a treatable illness.

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