An executive guide to workplace depression

Whether coping with their own lives or managing the lives of others, execut ives face the reality of major depression. Unfortunately, mental illness ge nerally, and depression specifically, are not as well understood as physica l disabilities. The general public continues to hold prejudices and misconc eptions regarding the cause and treatment of depression. In this article we summarize relevant literature addressing these prejudices and misconceptio ns and analyze the major issues managers should consider when dealing with depressed employees. We offer four prescriptions for balancing the conflict ing demands imposed by the law with concern for the employee, the safety of others, and shareholder value.