Miscellaneous

Why was an employee with depression and anxiety fired?

Why was an employee with depression and anxiety fired?

An employee with depression and anxiety who was fired over his ‘lack of capability’ was unfairly dismissed and discriminated against because of his disability, an employment tribunal has ruled.

How long does depression last in an employee?

This means that it must have lasted or be likely to last for 12 months or more. The nature of depression is such that it may recur and it may be the case that an employee suffers from depression for a few months and then their condition improves, perhaps aided by medication, only for the depression to return at a later stage.

How did a company treat an employee with depression?

The Tribunal found that he Respondent had subjected the Claimant to unfavourable treatment (section 15) in two ways: by implementing a disciplinary procedure following an incomplete investigation; and in dismissing him without obtaining medical opinion as to the effect that his depression and on-going medication could have had on his performance.

Can a employer refuse to employ someone with depression?

It’s not discrimination. There is a disability discrimination act so they wouldn’t be able to refuse to employ someone in a wheelchair or with some other recognised disability. But suffering with depression is not a disability.

Who was the employee who suffered from depression / anxiety?

The Claimant was issued with a written warning and at the time of the investigation into this incident, he informed the Respondent that he was depressed, had been having suicidal thoughts, that it affected his sleep and mood such that he was quick to lose his temper, that he was in receipt of therapy and was taking anti-depressants.

Is it possible to help an employee with depression?

Helping an employee with a work schedule is therefore a reasonable accommodation and is supported by research. Research from the 1980s through today suggests that flexible work hours actually increase productivity, commitment to the organization, and retention.

How does depression affect people in the workplace?

In the workplace, depression wreaks havoc with devastating consequences. A Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDCP) report estimated that depression causes 200 million lost workdays in the U.S. annually at a cost to employers of $17 to $44 billion in productivity and insurance payments.

How often do employees with depression miss work?

In a 3-month period alone, the CDCP estimated employees with depression miss an average of 4.8 workdays and suffer 11.5 days of reduced productivity. Entrepreneurs are certainly not exempt from battling depression. A study by Dr. Michael Freeman, a clinical professor at UC San Francisco, found that nearly half of them suffered from depression.