Employees in China are facing a big depression problem

Bosses in China should pay more attention to dealing with their staff’s mental well-being if they wish to avoid low productivity levels, and the on-going health of their workforce.

According to the Impact of Depression at Work survey - conducted by Ipsos Healthcare UK with an educational grant from H. Lundbeck A/S - close to 70% of Chinese workers diagnosed with depression have taken time off from work because of the illness.

The survey, which polled 1,000 Chinese employers and employees, found more than half of the depressed employees reported impaired work performance.

It also highlighted 53% of employers want stronger legislation and government policies to help employees with depression.

"Depression seriously impairs productivity. In fact, more than half of the social and economic burden caused by depression is related to sick leaves and poor efficiency," Wang Gang, professor of psychiatry and mental health of the Capital Medical University, told China Daily.

In addition, the survey found 40% of respondents said they had trouble concentrating due to depression.

Less than a quarter, however, recognised the cognitive symptoms of indecisiveness or forgetfulness.

"Some severe patients might commit suicide without timely intervention," Wang warned.

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