Success in the work environment depends on everyone's contribution. That's why no one in the workplace can afford to ignore depression.

This year, more than 19 million American adults (9.5% of the population) will suffer from this often misunderstood disorder. It is not a passing mood. It is not a personal weakness. It is a major-but treatable-illness. No job category or professional level is immune, and even a formerly outstanding employee can be affected.

The good news is that, in more than 80% of cases, treatment is effective. It enables people with depression to return to satisfactory, functioning lives. And nearly everyone gets some degree of relief. Treatment includes medication, short-term talk therapy, or a combination of both.

Untreated depression is costly. A RAND Corporation study found that patients with depressive symptoms spend more days in bed than those with diabetes, arthritis, back problems, lung problems, or gastrointestinal disorders. Estimates of the total cost of depression to the nation in 1990 range from $30 to $44 billion. Of the $44 billion figure, depression accounts for close to $12 billion in lost work days each year. Additionally, more than $11 billion in other costs accrue from deceased productivity due to symptoms that sap energy. affect work habits, cause problems with concentration, memory. and decision-making. And costs escalate still further if a worker's untreated depression contributes to alcoholism or drug abuse.

Still more business costs result when an employee or colleague has a family member suffering from depression. The depression of a spouse or child can disrupt working hours, lead to days absent from work, effect concentration and morale, and. decrease productivity.

Workers at every level in an organization can do something about depression. You can start by learning more about this common and serious illness. If you think you or a loved one may have depression, take action.

Seek consultation from an employee assistance counselor or contact your health provider. The information you share will remain confidential. You can't overcome depression by willpower, so it is important to seek professional help.

Employers and managers can play an additional role in altering the impact of depression in the workplace: