Double Trouble! Do Workplace Supports Mitigate Lost Productivity for Young Workers with Both Severe Rheumatic Diseases and Depressive Symptoms?

The analytic sample was 76 participants, and the authors noted small sample size may have reduced power, especially for absenteeism interaction analyses. Only participants employed at all three survey waves were included. Those not employed at all three were more likely to be younger, have less than a post secondary degree, be unmarried, have personal income below $20,000, have childcare responsibilities, and work part time at baseline. The study used self report surveys and a two item depression screen as a proxy, not clinical diagnosis of depression. Surveys were 9 months apart, so daily or weekly fluctuations in symptoms and support needs were not captured. The workplace support measure combined 13 accommodations and benefits, so the contribution of any single support cannot be separated. The comorbidity definition used cut-offs for pain, fatigue, disease activity, and the depression screen, not detailed diagnostic classification.

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Do not conclude that any one workplace support reduces lost productivity. The study combined 13 accommodations and benefits into one support measure, and the comorbid group whose support needs were met or exceeded showed increasing presenteeism over time.