Mental Health

These Work Habits Shockingly Suggest You Have Depression

By Dynne C. | Update Date: Feb 29, 2024 12:02 AM EST

Work habits and other everyday habits often serve as indicators of one's mental well-being. Among these, certain behavioral patterns can surprisingly suggest that a person is struggling with depression. Here are some signs to look for:

Avoiding going home

One sign of depression is the tendency to overwork as a means of escaping the challenges or distress one faces at home. Individuals struggling with depression may find solace in throwing themselves into their work, using it as a shield against confronting personal difficulties. 

This behavior reflects a form of avoidance coping, wherein the individual seeks refuge in the structured environment of the workplace to avoid confronting their own emotions. However, this relentless dedication to work often leads to burnout and exacerbates feelings of despair and isolation.

Having sudden angry outbursts

While many people believe that depression solely manifests as sadness or withdrawal, it can also manifest as irritability and anger. Individuals experiencing depressive symptoms may find themselves prone to sudden outbursts of frustration or rage over minor setbacks or inconveniences at work. 

These outbursts often stem from feelings of inadequacy, frustration with oneself, or a general sense of hopelessness. In some cases, it may be due to suppressed emotions. Colleagues and supervisors may perceive these outbursts as unprofessional or unwarranted, further perpetuating the individual's guilt and isolation.

Losing interest in what you used to enjoy

One of the hallmark symptoms of depression is anhedonia, the inability to derive pleasure or interest from activities once found enjoyable. In the workplace, this may manifest as a significant decline in motivation or enthusiasm for tasks that were previously fulfilling. 

Depressed individuals may find themselves going through the motions at work, feeling detached and disengaged from their responsibilities. This loss of interest can significantly impair job performance and further exacerbate feelings of worthlessness and despair.

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