Try to arrange the spaces you spend time in to maximize sunlight exposure.
So, what are the symptoms of Seasonal Affective Disorder? Seasonal affective disorder impacts individuals’ mental health differently and it truly would be different for every person. However, that being said, there are some common signs that a person may be suffering from SAD. They would include, but not limited to, the following: • Persistent low mood.
How to support employees with Seasonal Affective Disorder? Here are some strategies employers can use to help employees with SAD: Training for Management at all levels Provide training for management at all levels on recognizing the signs of seasonal affective disorder and how to support employees with depression. Equip your business and its staff with resources and guidance on how to approach employees on topics related to mental health and discuss those issues in a non-judgmental manner. Create Open Awareness about Seasonal Depression & its Symptoms in the Workplace with Everyone Talk about it in your team meetings and one-on-ones. Send out emails or internal communication that include helpful
• Lack of energy or fatigue. • Difficulty concentrating. • Changes in sleep patterns.
• Changes in appetite. • Weight gain or loss. • Social withdrawal. Tips to Ease Your Winter SAD Symptoms: • Spend more time outdoors during the day. • Try to arrange the spaces you spend time in to maximize sunlight exposure. • Keep curtains open during the day. • Trim tree branches or hedges that may be blocking some of the light from getting into your home. • Move furniture so that you sit near a window or, if you exercise indoors, set up your exercise equipment by a window. • Install skylights and add lamps. • Build physical activity into your lifestyle, preferably before SAD symptoms take hold. Physical activity relieves stress, builds energy, and increases both your physical and mental well-being and resilience. • Make a habit of taking a daily noon- hour walk, particularly if you commute to school or work in the dark hours of the day. • When all else fails, try a winter vacation in sunny climates—if the pocketbook and work schedule allow. Keep in mind that the symptoms will recur after you return home. • Try to resist the carbohydrate and sleep cravings that come with SAD
Spend more time outdoors during the day.
information and resources on how to identify and cope with seasonal depression. Provide literature on SAD, how it can impact a person’s mental health, and offer information on where employees can find support services or helplines. Employee Assistance Programs (EAP) If your business offers a benefits plan with an Employee Assistance Program that provides mental health resources, counselling, and support services. It’s important to communicate the availability of these services in your workplace so employees know how to access them when needed. Wellness Workshops & Programs Implement wellness programs that focus on mental health. Alternatively, you can update existing programs to include mental health-related components. This could include virtual fitness classes, mindfulness sessions, workshops on stress management, or guest speakers and webinars that provide education on mental health topics. Flexible Work Schedules & Arrangements Consider offering a flexible work schedule that allows employees to maximize exposure to natural light during daylight hours. If possible, offer employees affected by SAD to work remotely, so they can perform their
tasks in comfortable environments and while at peak energy levels. This is a win-win for the business, and the employee as a happier and healthier employee usually leads to more satisfied customers. Well-lit Workspaces in Winter Well, let’s be honest, you should always have a well-lit workspace, but it is important to let in as much natural light as possible during the winter months. For your remote workers, encourage them to work in places with access to natural light, so I room with windows. Encourage Breaks & Exercise We put this in here, but this should be done all year long. Regular breaks and exercises prevent short and long-term employee burnout. Encourage your staff to take short walks outside or breaks to stretch and relax. Organize Social Events Organizing company social and team- building events are extremely important to help employees stay connected. If you have an office-based or hybrid team, social outings can be a good way to boost morale and help your staff bond. For remote workers, you can schedule virtual events and regular one-on-one check-ins. This will help keep them engaged at work and feel connected to the team.
110 SPOTLIGHT ON BUSINESS MAGAZINE • VOL 26 ISSUE 1
HEALTH & WELLNESS • SPOTLIGHT ON BUSINESS MAGAZINE 111
Made with FlippingBook Digital Proposal Creator