Seasonal Affective Disorder
How to Support Employees with Seasonal Affective Disorder
It’s thought that one in 15 people in the UK are affected by Seasonal Affective Disorder (NHS). Also known as SAD, it’s useful to know how to support employees with Seasonal Affective Disorder. Not only will this help you manage employee morale, but it could help to increase your company’s productivity levels too.
“35% of people identify as having had SAD and… 30% say Winter negatively affects their productivity.” Peldon Rose (HR Magazine)
What is Seasonal Affective Disorder?
Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) causes depression or low mood at certain times of the year, most commonly between September and April. People might notice their energy levels dropping, as well as changes in their eating or sleeping patterns. However, it’s important to understand that most people’s moods are affected by the changing seasons. SAD is different because the associated feelings interfere with people’s everyday lives.
SAD is often attributed to the lower light levels we experience during wintertime, which has been linked to slower brain functions. A lack of sunlight has been associated with reduced melatonin and serotonin levels. These hormones help to regulate sleep, mood and appetite (NHS).
Contrary to many people’s thinking, SAD can affect people during the summer and winter. It all depends on the weather and temperature. In the UK, we are exposed to the vagaries of British weather, which can sometimes mean cool and dull summers. When someone suffers from SAD, a grey, rainy summer could exacerbate their symptoms.
Typical signs that someone in your workplace may be suffering with Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) include the following:
Lethargy, low energy and sleeping issues (too much or too little).
Lowered immune system, resulting in regular infections, illnesses and colds.
Feelings of sadness, anxiety, irritation, anger or hopelessness.
Loss of interest in socialising, physical or sexual contact.
Difficulty focusing or being able to concentrate.
Of course, the above list could also apply to various health conditions. Therefore, speak to those you suspect might be affected by SAD and encourage them to talk to their doctor. There are various approaches such as light therapy that might help to ease their symptoms. As an employer, there are also several measures you could consider for the workplace.
How can you help employees with SAD?
If you are a manager and you are concerned that an employee is struggling with Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD), there are ways of providing support. We have listed a few below:
Encourage employees to go outside during lunchtime
From a wellbeing perspective, it’s always worth encouraging your employees to take a break at lunchtime. Employers could suggest a walk around the block or a local park, which also ensures fresh air and exercise. As a result, your employees are likely to return to the office feeling more refreshed and productive for the afternoon.Hold meetings in outdoor locations, where possible
During the summertime, make use of any outdoor spaces and hold meetings outside to increase exposure to natural daylight. If the weather is too bad to go outside, hold meetings in spacious rooms with large windows that allow lots of natural light.Find ways to maximise daylight hours
In wintertime, it’s common for people to commute to work in the dark, both in the mornings and the evenings. This can take its toll on SAD sufferers. One approach could be to allow flexible working hours, allowing one journey during daylight.Make adjustments to offices
A simple office adaptation could include fitting lighting with daylight bulbs and making sure windows maximise natural light. Consider employee wellbeing when you are preparing for an office relocation or renovation. Employee wellbeing is shaping modern commercial architecture. There is an increasing move towards larger windows, green areas and even relaxation zones for employees to unwind.Offer wellbeing activities and schemes
When people eat healthy and exercise regularly, their overall wellbeing will improve. Employers could set up initiatives and schemes that promote wellness activities, for example, gym discounts as an employee benefit.
HR advice for employees with Seasonal Affective Disorder
It’s important to raise awareness of Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) in the workplace. Internal campaigns and communications can help to encourage employees to support each other and share their own experiences.
It’s worth remembering that people can be seriously impacted by SAD, leading to feelings of depression and even suicidal thoughts. Therefore, employees need to feel they are understood and not mocked for raising any issues in relation to SAD. Promote open dialogue so people feel able to seek help from their line managers, if they believe they are affected.
At Invictus HR, we regularly advise our clients on a number of employee wellbeing issues. Our approach looks at practical and sensitive ways you can offer support to employees. We can also train and mentor your HR teams so they have a deeper understanding of SAD.
For HR advice on how to manage employees with Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD), please get in touch.
Sources:
https://www.hrmagazine.co.uk/content/features/a-guide-to-seasonal-affective-disorder-sad/
https://www.nhsinform.scot/illnesses-and-conditions/mental-health/seasonal-affective-disorder-sad/