British workers are the most depressed in Europe

The IDEA (Impact of Depression in the Workplace in Europe Audit) survey polled more than 7,000 people in Europe. It found that 20% of respondents were diagnosed with depression at some point. The highest rate was in GB (26%) and the lowest in Italy (12%).

Among workers experiencing depression, those in Germany (61%), Denmark (60%), and GB (58%) were most likely to take time off work, while those in Turkey were the least likely to take time off (25%).

The survey also found that 10% of workers across Europe have taken time off for depression. The average number of days taken off work during the last episode of depression was 36 days. The highest numbers are in Germany and the UK - with an average 41 days off - and the lowest in Italy – 23 days off.

“The results of the IDEA survey show that much needs to be done in raising awareness and supporting employees and employers in recognising and managing depression in the workplace,” said Dr Vincenzo Costigliola, president of the EDA.

Britain's top position of worker depression may be partly due to awareness and diagnosis being better here than in other countries.

"People themselves have got better at recognising it, and doctors have got better at diagnosing it and supporting patients," said Emer O'Neill, chief executive of the charity Depression Alliance.

Despite the size of the problem, nearly 33% of the managers reported they had no formal support or resources to deal with employees who have depression. Managers in GB (55%) were most likely to have support from their HR department, while managers in Turkey were most likely to receive support from a medical professional (79%).