Modernisation has directly increased the rate of depression in society
According to research, rates of depression more than doubled from 1990 to 2000 and modernisation is associated with higher rates of depression. Millennials grow up in these modern societies where their social environment has more competition, comparison, inequality, social isolation, less social support, more work demands, more stress and greater emphasis on extrinsic goals (money, status, appearance) as opposed to intrinsic goals (social relationships, community). They also tend to have poorer physical well-being, with more physical inactivity. Physical health and exercise determines emotional well-being. Another reason could be the change in sleep patterns (eight hours in 1960, as opposed to six hours 40 minutes in 2009) and the prevalence of insomnia. Sunlight exposure has also been reduced as more jobs have moved indoors and people have longer work hours and less sunlight exposure due to cancer links. This leads to lower vitamin D levels.
For the past two decades, problems related to mental health, such as stress and depression, have been increasing, not only at the workplace but also in society, in general. According to the World Health Organisation (WHO), depression is the leading cause of disability worldwide and ranks among the top three workplace problems for employees.
Employers are definitely more aware of it, however there is still a long journey ahead in terms of the support provided by companies. Depressed employees hesitate to reveal their condition to bosses and coworkers for fear of being stigmatised, being seen as weak, or even held back professionally. When an employee is depressed, it can affect not only that employee’s productivity and happiness, but also expand to the entire mood of his or her coworkers and affect their productivity as well.
Employers are increasingly aware that promoting mental health is good for business. A happy employee is more productive, so it makes sense for employers to help people in need of services to find those services. Studies have shown that companies and organisations that are more accepting and supportive with mental health practices have happier employees with better productivity. From Dr Joao Lourenco Clinical psychologist working in Dubai