1. Depression: How to help yourself and others
EMPLOYEE
ASSISTANCE
PROGRAM
Updated 3.14
CATERPILLAR CONFIDENTIAL: GREEN

2. Everyone feels down, “blue” or sad from time to time
Everyone feels down, “blue” or sad from time to time. But Depression is a serious medical condition that can negatively impact one’s work, social life, and health

3. So why is are we talking about this?
Depression is…….
Is associated with an increased risk for mortality from suicide as well as other causes, such as heart disease
Is associated with lower workplace productivity and more absenteeism, which result in lower income and higher unemployment.
Is associated with higher risk for other conditions and behaviors, including:
Other mental disorders (anxiety disorders, substance use disorders, eating disorders)

4. What does it look like? Sleep and weight/increase or decrease
Less social, more conflicts
Trouble getting organized or doing basic tasks (shopping). Forgetful.
Argues, seems angry, irritability
Falling grades or performance
Seems distracted or distant. Loss of sexual interest.
Stops having fun
“Sick” a lot, from school and work. Aches, pains, fatigue, GI problems.
Excessive substance use, even “workaholism”

5. What can we do? Recognize
Spotting Depression can be tricky, particularly at work and across cultural/gender variations
Changes in mood and interpersonal relations
Difficulty with co-workers or social withdrawal
Loss of interest or effectiveness in daily activities
Fatigue, changes in eating patterns, ETOH use
Excessive absenteeism or tardiness
Accidents and injuries
Sudden or significant deterioration in performance
Trouble making decisions
Difficulty accepting constructive criticism or guidance
These are specific to Depression, but largely applicable to any mental health condition, and many physical health crises

6. Depression screening: PHQ-2
Over the last two weeks, how often have you been bothered by:
Little interest or pleasure in doing things?
Feeling down, depressed or hopeless?
If either of these is screened “positive”, then further evaluation is needed.

7. Suicide
After cancer and heart disease, suicide accounts for more years of life lost than any other cause of death.
10th leading cause of death in the U.S. 17th worldwide.
Attempts are hard to measure. But in the U.S. twelve (494,000) people attempt suicide for one completion (41,000).
Estimates are as high as 25 attempts for each completed suicide.
Women attempt suicide 3x more often
Men are 4x more likely to die by suicide.
Source:

8. What can we do? Intervene
QPR
Question, based on what you’ve noticed
“I have noticed you seem depressed. Have you been feeling ‘down’ or not your normal self?”
Persuade them to get help
“I’m really concerned about you. I would like for you to talk to someone about this.”
Refer to the EAP or other resource
“Here’s the number for the EAP. It’s completely confidential.” Or, “would you like me to make the call?”

9. What can we do? Talk about it.
During a moment of peace, share your concerns
Give yourself plenty of time
Allow the person to talk freely
Listen. Share more of your concern than your observations.
Avoid talking directly about him, use “I” statements
Don’t blame, accuse, or criticize. Don’t judge or condemn.
I’m here for you.
You matter.
Let me help.
Depression is a (real) thing.
There is hope.
You can survive this. You will feel better.
I’ll do my best to understand.
You won’t push me away.
I care about you.
We’ll get through this together.

10. What can we do? Referral Options
Suggest they speak to someone they trust
Get them to a doctor, who can evaluate and treat
Clergy member
Trusted friend or family member who has influence
Company doctor/nurse
Private counselor
Employee Assistance Program (EAP)

11. www.benefits.cat.com > EAP
Employee Assistance Program (EAP)
EAP is a voluntary, confidential, FREE benefit designed to help you and your family address and resolve a variety of personal issues before they impact your well-being, health or productivity.
EAP provides consultation, assessment, counseling, referrals and online information.
1-866-CAT-0565
> EAP

12. Accessing EAP By phone: 1-866-CAT-0565
By web and live-chat. Link on the Employee Assistance Program tab at: > EAP
Global access numbers click, where is EAP available > click here or chestnutglobalpartners.org/cat
On-site EAP offices
Contact Dr. John Pompe, Monica Ratcliff, Suzanne Clausen, Rob Peters

13. Questions?