Working in call centers makes you depressed

Depression: Call center employees most frequently on sick leave

01/28/2015

The number of lost days of employees due to mental illness is increasing. According to press reports, a study shows that call center workers, in geriatric care and childcare, are the most likely to be on sick leave due to depression.

Three occupational groups particularly affected
In Germany, there are more days lost due to mental illness. According to the dpa news agency, call center workers in geriatric care and child care are the most likely to be on sick leave due to depression. In the investigation of the technician health insurance (TK), from which the „image“-According to the newspaper (Wednesday), in 2013, a total of 3.7 percent of all call center employees were declared incapacitated for depression.

Stress and mental stress
According to the information, there were 3.45 percent and 2.74 percent of the employees in the care of the elderly and childcare. The failure rate due to depression is in the national average at 1.6 percent. As has been reported, among other things, stress and mental stress at work are considered to be causes of depression. TK head Jens Baas told the newspaper: „In the fight against depression, companies, employees and healthcare alike are required.“ The best prevention is not laws, but appreciation, the compatibility of family and work and healthy balance.

Recovery phases and health promotion
However, there are other preventive measures. For example, health experts are constantly calling for longer recovery periods, better compensation for overtime and greater health promotion in order to prevent the constant stress at work. In addition, workers can use different stress reduction methods. These include yoga, autogenic training or Tai Chi. Furthermore, it is advisable to move regularly, to sleep well and to eat healthily. (Ad)

Picture: Angela Parszyk