How depression can impact your ability to work 

On Behalf of | Nov 29, 2022 | ERISA Disability Benefits

Disability benefits can provide relief to workers who are no longer able to do their job because of a physical ailment. However, such benefits can also be helpful to people who are suffering from chronic mental health conditions. 

Depression is one of the more common mental health conditions. The symptoms can vary from person to person but it is certainly an illness that can impact someone’s ability to work. Outlined below are a few reasons why. 

Feelings of fatigue 

One of the main symptoms of depression is fatigue. The fatigue associated with depression is often much more than regular tiredness after a busy week. A depressed individual may feel physically unable to get out of bed, making it impossible for them to get to work. 

Loss of concentration 

Most jobs require at least some level of concentration, but for more hazardous work, this is vital. A lack of ability to concentrate is another common symptom associated with depression. In jobs that involve the use of machinery, it only takes one small error to cause major accidents. Someone who is suffering from depression, and a lack of ability to concentrate, as a result, should not feel pressured into working because it puts both them and their colleagues in danger. 

Mental health issues can be just as debilitating as those that are physical. If you’re unable to work and worried about how you’ll cope financially, there are sources of assistance out there. Looking into your legal options will help to put your mind at ease.