What is SAD, and how can you help employees who suffer?

As the darker days set in and daylight hours diminish with the onset of winter, many individuals may notice a dip in their energy levels and overall mood. Cold mornings often make getting out of bed a challenge, and dreary, grey days can encourage a tendency to hibernate in cosy pyjamas while binge-watching Netflix. 

While most people can eventually shake off these feelings, some struggle to overcome the seasonal shifts. For these individuals, persistent lethargy and a low mood can feel like an unrelenting raincloud, a condition known as Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD).

In the UK, approximately 1 in 15 people have been formally diagnosed with SAD, with estimates suggesting that nearly 29 per cent of adults experience its symptoms during the winter months. As the winter approaches, many employees may opt to work from home to avoid commuting in the dark. This can lead to a sense of isolation, missing out on valuable connections with colleagues. Therefore, it’s crucial for employers to understand the impact of winter on mental health and to implement strategies that support their workforce in combating the effects of SAD.

What exactly is SAD?

Dull weather and shorter daylight hours can significantly affect your mood, leading to SAD. This disorder occurs when the winter gloom impacts your emotional well-being to the point of depression.

Symptoms of SAD can manifest in various ways. Many individuals experience sleep disturbances, such as oversleeping without feeling refreshed, difficulty staying awake, or waking up too early. Lethargy is another common issue, where even simple tasks become overwhelming due to persistent fatigue. Overeating, particularly cravings for carbohydrates and sweets, can lead to weight gain. 

Emotional symptoms include feelings of despair, guilt, and anxiety, making everyday activities frustratingly challenging. Social withdrawal often follows, as people may isolate themselves from family and friends, experience irritability, and feel emotionally numb. Physical symptoms may include joint pain, stomach issues, and a weakened immune system.

SAD typically emerges around September and can last until April, peaking during the darkest months. While the exact causes remain unclear, it is believed that a lack of bright light in winter disrupts the biochemical balance in the brain, affecting various functions such as mood, sleep, and appetite.

SAD and your business

A 2017 Happy Office Winter Survey by Peldon Rose revealed that 44 per cent of employees feel winter negatively affects their mental well-being, while 35 per cent believe they have experienced Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD). Additionally, 30 per cent reported that winter reduces their productivity. 

The effects of SAD can be costly for businesses through increased absenteeism, diminished productivity, and decreased creativity, making it essential to address winter's impact on employees’ mental health and well-being.

How can you help?

• Talk about it

Creating an open and supportive company culture is crucial for helping employees deal with SAD and other mental health challenges. When employees feel assured of your support and that they won't be judged, it alleviates stress. This environment enables them to focus on their work and well-being without the fear of negative consequences.

Offer training for managers to help them recognise the signs of Seasonal Affective Disorder and effectively support employees experiencing depression. Provide resources and guidance on how to engage with employees about mental health topics in a non-judgmental way. This will empower managers to create a supportive environment where employees feel comfortable discussing their challenges.

• Focus on wellbeing

Maintaining a year-round focus on wellness can address many factors related to SAD. Encouraging exercise and ensuring access to natural daylight are two effective self-help strategies. Earn It will promote these aims.

Allowing team members to step outside for fresh air or a walk when needed can be beneficial. Incorporating walking meetings or brief outings to a nearby shop can help vulnerable employees manage their well-being and stay balanced during challenging seasons.

• Improve light in the workplace

Many workplaces lack designs prioritising natural daylight, but you can enhance it for your employees, benefiting everyone - not just those with SAD. Open blinds, keep windows clean and remove obstacles that block light. Consider prioritising window seats for SAD sufferers. 

If your workplace has minimal windows, explore options like installing roof windows or light tunnels. Encourage employees to spend time outside for lunch and invest in daylight lamps to support those vulnerable to winter depression.

• Encourage flexible working

It’s essential to recognise that reasonable adjustments for employees facing mental health challenges include allowing time off for medical appointments with their GP or other professionals. Additionally, consider offering a later start time to enable exposure to daylight or temporarily adjusting shift patterns to maximise natural light. 

Granting permission to use holiday allowances during this period can also be beneficial, as time spent in the sun during winter months can help alleviate symptoms for those with SAD.

• Stay connected

Organising company social events can help employees stay connected and boost morale. For office-based or hybrid teams, events can be a great way to promote bonding and camaraderie. 

For remote workers, consider scheduling virtual events and regular one-on-one check-ins to keep them engaged and connected with the team. These initiatives create a supportive atmosphere, enhancing relationships and overall workplace satisfaction.