Problems concentrating. Loss of energy. Feelings of worthlessness. Difficulty making decisions. Each year, an estimated 11 million Americans experience a major depressive episode. Keeping a job while struggling to regain one's health is one of the most difficult and delicate aspects of recovery from depression. Authors Fawn Fitter and Beth Gulas provide a reassuring, informative guide to dealing with depression on the job. They address questions such as: Should I ask my boss for time off? Should I tell my colleagues about my depression? Are my treatment records confidential? With self-assessment tools and decision-making guidance, this book is a first-of-its-kind resource for millions of Americans faced with the hardship of working through depression.
Key features and benefits
identifies and addresses key concerns related to depression in the workplace
provides immediately useful information and advice for readers
inspired by one of the author's personal experiences with major depression
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Fawn Fitter has written about careers and workplace issues, as well as many other topics, for dozens of publications ranging from Computerworld to Cosmopolitan. After a bout of major depression left her unable to work for several months, she discovered that many people were, like her, struggling with concerns about how to integrate the illness into their working lives. That experience inspired her to write Working in the Dark. A freelance writer for more than a decade, Fawn is an active member of both the American Society of Journalists and Authors and the National Writers Union. She is a former newspaper reporter and has a B.S. in journalism from Boston University. She lives and works in San Francisco.
Beth Gulas has frequently worked with employees in crisis as a specialist in corporate critical intervention. Many of the anecdotes in Working in the Dark are drawn directly from her practice as president of WorkForce Management, a consulting firm specializing in helping companies anticipate, evaluate, and manage change. Her client list includes well-known companies like Fidelity Investments, Polaroid, GTE, and Merrill Lynch as well as small entrepreneurial ventures. In addition to her 20 years of experience in human resources, business, and management, Beth is licensed as a mental health counselor in Massachusetts and holds a graduate degree in counseling from Ohio University. She lives and works in Wellesley, Mass. and Los Angeles.
I ordered this book because a family member suffers from depression and was having problems dealing with certain tasks at work. I wish this book had been around a long time ago. One of the reasons this book is so good is that the authors speak from personal experience. The advice you are given is based on what worked or works for them and the other people whose stories are also talked about in the book.
The suggestion that you take Myers-Briggs test to determine what your best suited for in regards to work is VERY helpful. I've taken this test and I was able to see just what areas I could work in and also that I had more choices than I originally thought. This test is wonderful for anyone!
Many employers are not prepared to deal with the subject of depression. This book is a must have tool for human resources so more people are educated on the real story behind the illness and dismiss the stereotype of a depressed person. It is VERY true what the author says about some bosses who don't want to know more on the subject and that they can't understand it and just throw their hands up and say that the employee can't do anything. My loved one is going through it right now. It is terrible and uncalled for.
I can't say enough good things about WORKING IN THE DARK. It really is a must have book.
I bought this book when I began having difficulties at work due to my depression and I'm glad I did. It covers everything from how to disclose your illness to your boss/co-workers (if you decide to), your rights under the American Disabilities Act and Family Medical Leave Act, resources within your department/company that can advocate for you and much, much more. You're more protected than you know - and you *should* know - even if your depression is under control this is still a valuable book to have in case the darkness returns. Did you know that if you decide to disclose personal medical information to your boss that he/she cannot use that information against you in any way including talking to colleagues, other managers, supervisors, or co-workers? Did you know that you cannot be fired for disclosing your mental illness? Did you know that if you need to take time off due to your condition that when you return to work you must be placed back in your previous position with your same pay? Don't get me wrong - and as the book states - you certainly can be fired for poor job performance - but you have tools at your disposal to help you and your supervisor keep the communication open and clear. This book saved my job - and my sanity. If you're struggling at work because of depression - GET THIS BOOK.
Given the amount of stigma that still surrounds depression and mental illness in general, this book is an essential resource. It's matter-of-fact and practical; the information about confidentiality and job protection is particularly helpful. We should all know our rights in the workplace, and Working in the Dark can be a real source of empowerment.
I highly recommend this book. The authors share their own personal experiences along side valuable factual advice. This book is not only for those going through depression, HR employees also benefit from reading Working in the Dark. There are no other books on this specific subject which is fine because Working in the Dark covers all of the information you need. It is well written and easy to read. The authors are not "preachy" in discussing the topic as is common in self-help books.
I purchased this for a close friend who was battling depression while holding down an intensely demanding job. She found the book to be profoundly helpful and has since recommended it to several of her co-workers.
As this book states,"reasonable accommodations are not special privileges; they're your civi rights." I recommend this book to anyone who is planning on requesting a reasonable accommodation at your job for a mental illness. Do not let your employer commit discrimination against you. Hold your head up and stand up for your right.
I wish I had found this book a few years earlier! Symptoms of depression make everyday requirements of any job seem like impossible challenges. This is a very practical guide to let you know what you can do to ensure both you and your employer can work together to reduce the impact of depression on your work. And perhaps most importantly you'll find out you are not alone.
This book is a very helpful resource for anyone assisting a family member (or self) with depression and work life issues that are related to getting better and moving past depression.
