FACTS — Workplace Adjustments & Depression
“Workplace adjustments can support employees experiencing depression.”
The right adjustments can help an employee manage the impact of depression while remaining engaged in their work. Support should be based on the individual rather than assuming everyone with depression needs the same thing.
Adjustments might include:
- Flexible start and finish times
- Temporary changes to working hours
- Home or hybrid working where appropriate
- Changes to workload or deadlines
- Breaking larger tasks into smaller steps
- Clear written priorities and instructions
- Additional or more flexible breaks
- A quieter workspace
- Reduced interruptions
- Additional processing time
- Regular supportive check-ins
- Temporary changes to responsibilities
- Support returning after sickness absence
Start with a conversation
A useful question is:
“What parts of your working day are currently most difficult, and what might make them more manageable?”
Adjustments can also be reviewed and changed. What helps during one period of depression may not be what the person needs several months later.
Support doesn't mean lowering someone's value
An adjustment is intended to reduce a barrier, not to assume that an employee is incapable of doing their job.
Sometimes relatively small changes to how, when or where work happens can make a significant difference to someone's ability to function and remain in employment.
The most effective adjustment is often the one developed with the employee, rather than for them.
Space to Breathe Therapy
