Job loss 'will cause 1 in 7 to develop depression'
Job losses caused by the continuing effect of the economic downturn will result in one in seven unemployed people to develop depression, according to a new report.
Figures issued by poverty charity Elizabeth Finn Care and Roehampton University show that there has been a "staggering rise" in mental health illnesses among UK workers, which is directly attributable to worries related to the economic downturn.
According to the statistics of those who have lost their jobs over the past year, 71 per cent have suffered depressive symptoms, while people in the middle Social Economic Status groups are more likely to suffer from depressive symptoms if they lose their jobs, with 59.8 per cent affected, compared to those in the lower or higher SES groups, which are 44.9 per cent and 46.7 per cent respectively.
The figures have been met with concern by many experts, including Emma Mamo, senior policy and campaigns officer for Mind, a mental health charity in England and Wales.
She pointed out that one in seven people who have lost their job will go on to suffer long-term depression as a result, with many being particularly susceptible.
"Anyone who has lost their job or has been made redundant knows that it can have a strong knock on effect on your mental wellbeing. Having mental health problems such as depression can then make it tough getting back to the workplace," she said.
Ms Mamo pointed out that the symptoms of depression can not only make day-to-day life and job hunting a battle, but many employers may be reluctant to recruit people with a history of mental health problems, as well as a long gap in their employment history.
Posted by Louise Jones
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