Working From Home as a Cause for Depression

Working from home has become increasingly popular since the COVID-19 crisis. Technological advancements have provided greater access to remote work, and lifestyle changes have given more people the opportunity to work from home.

The mental health impact can range significantly in intensity. Everyone’s experience will be different. Stress levels will vary depending on individual criteria, including factors such as:

• Personal relationships with colleagues
• Workload management styles & capabilities
• Comfort levels when using technology for communication

How Does Working From Home Trigger Depression

Mental health can be a tricky subject to address due to its complexity. Working from home presents unique challenges, including increased workloads, daily routine changes, and isolation.

According to studies conducted by BMC Public Health, most people working from home struggle with adverse effects on their mental well-being because of factors such as decreased social contact and increased stress.

Another factor that contributes to mental health issues when working from home is pre existing emotional or psychological conditions. Individuals living with diagnosable mental health disorders or symptoms of depression may find it challenging to separate work life from personal life when they are home all day.

Trying to “turn off” work thoughts after having moved between bed and desk all day can be tiring and cause feelings of hopelessness, which fuels anxiety working from home.

Furthermore, a lack of structure at home can make it more difficult for individuals with mental illness to keep up their routines – making caring for one’s well-being even more challenging.

Impact on Social Life

The importance of social support in the workplace cannot be overstated. Without it, employees can suffer from social isolation and depressive symptoms, therefore decreasing productivity and morale.

An effective way to promote social support is by prioritizing a work environment that encourages employees to engage with one another, both in-person and virtually, without feeling pressured or overwhelmed.

Eating Habits

Working remotely has changed the lives of many people, including the way we work and function daily. The ability to stay home more and move from room to room can be great for some, but it also opens up opportunities for unhealthy eating habits that may lead to weight gain.

Physical Activity

Though studies show that most people do not report an overall change in their food intake, many people working from home neglect physical activity. Companies should take part in developing at-home exercise routines or virtual fitness classes that everyone can access. Incorporating these lifestyle changes into everyday life will make it easier for remote workers to maintain a healthy balance in their lives.

The Boundary Between Work and Home

The lack of a dedicated workspace and the struggle to separate work life from home is an increasing problem today. Remote workers often fall into the trap of going well over their hours, unable to take moments away from their computer or home office.

This is further exacerbated by increased technological connectivity, which means employees can respond to phone calls, emails, and other requests well after the typical workday.

Those who aren’t physically in the office can often feel disconnected from team dynamics, prompting them to extend their work hours even further. This leads many down a dangerous path that could result in professional burnout, fatigue, or stress-related health problems.

How NeuroSpa Can Help

At NeuroSpa, our healthcare professionals are prepared to assist you with any mental health condition you may be experiencing, whether it be depression, anxiety, or even PTSD.

We pride ourselves on being Tampa’s premier mental health center, and as such, we provide a comprehensive selection of treatment options, including TMS therapy, Ketamine therapy, talk therapy, medication management, and many more.

Each individual seeking care at our facility is provided with a treatment strategy tailored specifically to meet their needs. If you believe you’ve been suffering from depression, don’t wait any longer – reach out for the help that you deserve.

Book a free consultation today.

Signs You Are Experiencing Depression vs. A Midlife Crisis

Aging is a process that can sometimes feel uncomfortable while we go through profound, abrupt changes throughout our lives. A midlife crisis isn’t a psychological disorder per se, but it’s still an uncomfortable period of transition between 40 and 55, although there’s some variability in the timing of midlife crises. Men and women experience midlife crises somewhat differently.

Read more