So, what is Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD)? Seasonal affective disorder, often referred to as seasonal depression or the winter blues, is a type of depression that follows a seasonal pattern. Typically, it begins and ends at the same time each year, around the fall and winter seasons. However, in Canada, where winter conditions can roll well into Spring, so the effects of SAD can linger in individuals for longer periods and not limited to Fall and Winter months. So, what causes SAD? Several factors are believed to contribute to the onset of seasonal depression. They include: • Reduced Sunlight Exposure: Limited exposure to natural sunlight during winter can disrupt the body’s internal clock and lead to depressive symptoms. • Biological Clock Disruption: Changes in circadian rhythms and melatonin production during the darker winter months can impact mood regulation.
serotonin levels, affecting mood and contributing to fatigue and depression. So, what are the symptoms of Seasonal Affective? 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.
THE WINTER BLUES THE FACTS BEHIND SEASONAL AFFECTIVE DISORDER by Ryan Myson
They would include but not limited to the following:
• Persistent low mood. Lack of energy or fatigue.
Whether you are working in an office or remotely in Canada and many places in the U.S. December means the start of Winter and months of shorter days, longer nights, and frigid temperatures mixed with blowing snow, wind chill, and icy conditions that can keep us trapped inside. The change in weather may impact everyone’s mood negatively temporarily as they adjust, but for some, the winter blues can lead to significant mental health challenges that can affect their personal and work life.
In the workplace, you’ll encounter employees suffering from the effects of Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD), also known as Seasonal Depression. Employees experiencing effects of Seasonal Affective Disorder may show a change in mood and behaviour, such as increased irritability, sadness, low energy levels, or difficulties with concentration. By educating yourself on the symptoms of Seasonal Affective Disorder and knowing what to look for, employers can recognize employees who need their support and can offer and provide the resources they need in the workplace.
• Difficulty concentrating.
• Changes in sleep patterns.
• Changes in appetite.
• Weight gain or loss.
• Social withdrawal.
• Serotonin Levels: Reduced sunlight may lead to lower
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SPOTLIGHT MAGAZINE ON BUSINESS MAGAZINE • VOL 24 ISSUE 5 121
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