force. The level of work stress will vary according to the economic sector, the economic situation, the level of rationalisation, corporate philosophy, and the objectives of trade unions.
The increased flexibility demanded in the workforce is having a negative effect due to2:
* Compression of several jobs into one,
* Result orientation,
* Blurring of the boundaries between work and private life,
* Overload,
* Unpredictability of work requirements,
* Neglect of safety and health protection at work.
The prevalence of depression
Burnout and depression are among the most common negative consequences of workplace stress.
There is an increasing amount of discussion regarding the phenomenon of "burnout" as a result of mental stress in the work environment.3 Burnout is caused by a high concentration of work and pressure to achieve, as well as by a strong personal identification with customers or clients and a high sense of responsibility. Increasingly, in all occupations, issues related to the organisation of work (pressure of time, lack of social support from colleagues, inadequate backing from superiors, little or no feedback and lack of recognition of work performed, including social recognition) are being cited as possible reasons for burnout.
After an initial phase of reduced commitment to work, burnout can lead to emotional reactions which can impact physical and mental health. Depression has been cited as a mental health problem that can be triggered by job burnout.
Depression has been identified in at least 6 % of the population in Germany. Academic opinion continues to hold the view that women become ill twice as often as men. However, studies4 indicate that women do not have depression more frequently, but that they have a higher relapse rate and are more prone to chronicity. Contrary to popular opinion, the prevalence of depression is not necessarily related to socio-economic status. However, as with other mental illnesses, if depression becomes chronic, it can lead to lower socio-economic status.
Studies state that serious depressive illness is ten times more frequent today than it was 50 ago.5 Those affected are becoming younger and younger. According to information from the Federal Ministry of Health,6 use of anti-depressant drugs by those aged between 25 and 30 increased from 0.1% in 1986 to 1.1% in 19897.
Family doctors and mental health professionals are primarily responsible for the timely recognition and adequate treatment of depressive disorders.
