Depression is behind many sick days in SA's workplaces. Research conducted by the SA Depression and Anxiety Group, with Hexor and Lundbeck, has found that one in four employees have been diagnosed with depression. Dr Renata Schoeman, a psychiatrist and lecturer at the University of Stellenbosch Business School, would like businesses to realise the effect company structure and management style can have on productivity and employees' mental health. "Undiagnosed and untreated mental health conditions impact a workplace through increased absenteeism and presenteeism [attending work while unwell], reduce productivity and increase costs. Most employers tend to completely underestimate the financial impact of mental illness on their bottom line." She has the following advice: • As employers, be aware of stressors that affect workers' mental health; • Proactive mental health programmes that foster and maintain a healthy environment and address the stigma associated with mental health issues...
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