Depression is considered by physicians for centuries as a medical illness. Symptoms of it include repetitive negative thinking, overeating or ignoring food, difficulty in making decisions, loss of interest at work and even constant self-criticism. People that are severely depressed sometimes hurt themselves by cutting and bruising-while others commit suicide.

What if someone in your workplace experiences depression? What are the things you have to remember while dealing with them? These tips can be a great help:

1. Know how to extend your help.

You can start by asking your co-worker about it. Or if you find it awkward to ask, then try researching about the matter instead. It's better if you raise your awareness about it by using trustworthy resources, according to American Express. Though most likely what you will do for your comrade can't be a substitute for medical opinion, it still could create a great start. Don't forget that whatever you do is fine; just don't make any diagnosis and assumptions.

2. Improve your workplace by using eco-therapy techniques.

Eco-therapy techniques are said to be effective and proven, as stated by EHS Today. So to create a healthy environment, one of the things you can put up in your workplace is live plants. Its green color and release of oxygen can raise our alpha brainwaves. Pets can also contribute. Even as simple as fish can relax our brain and give people a lift.

3. Invest some time in hearing them out.

Once your co-worker shares something about his or her situation, take time to listen. Don't try to sympathize or interrupt with what he or she is opening up because maybe all he or she wants is to share the pain with someone, according to Casey Wheeler, author of the blog post "Guest Post: How to Deal With a Depressed Coworker." All you have to do is to listen and be attentive.

Having a depressed co-worker isn't an easy situation. You might even get personally affected as time goes by. But, one thing is for sure, with family, friends, and co-worker's support, your comrade can overcome depression. And your workplace will be as good as what it was before.