Battling the Winter Blues: Supporting Employees with Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD)
By Max Douge
Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) is a disorder in which an affected person suffers through a depressive period typically resulting from the changes that occur when there’s a transition in seasons. Lack of daylight, changes in weather patterns, or associated holidays within a season may trigger this mood disorder and impact a person’s ability to function properly at work or at home.
With the beginning of winter, the season traditionally associated with SAD is upon us, keep an eye on coworkers who may exhibit any combination of the following for an extended period of time:
Low energy; increased fatigue
Disengaged from normal conversations
Difficulty waking up in the morning
Heightened irritability
Difficulty concentrating
Poor eating habits/weight gain
Businesses can assist their employees who may be experiencing episodes of SAD; here are some suggestions:
Encourage periodic walking breaks, outside for fresh air and sunshine, if possible
Support good eating habits – provide healthy food options during meetings, when snacks are provided
Provide opportunities to socialize more during lunch, breaks, or after work activities
It should be noted that businesses are not being called upon to help fix or cure anyone who is suffering from this disorder; these are recommendations that can provide some positive assistance to anyone experiencing SAD.
Learn more about Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD):