Seasonal Affective Disorder

Colder and darker days: supporting your employees with seasonal affective disorder, SAD.

The UK is affected more than most countries by seasonal variation, with the sun setting before 4 pm in London – or even before 3pm in parts of Scotland! It is only natural that many employees feel this effect on their mood. In fact, 40% of adults report feeling the effect of winter on their wellbeing.

However, a small proportion of people are especially impacted by the seasonal changes in weather, so much so that it is a recognised kind of depression.

Sufferers of seasonal affective disorder, SAD, exhibit depressive-like symptoms during the winter and require extra help during this period. Promoting a healthier, safer workplace for your team!

What is SAD?

The NHS states that SAD is a type of seasonal depression that mostly causes a dip in mood in the winter and is alleviated in summer – though it can also occur in a reversed form.

It is thought to be brought on by the lower light levels in the winter, which affect the body in a number of ways (source: NHS):

• Production of melatonin – melatonin is a hormone that makes individuals feel sleepy; in people with SAD, the body may produce it in higher than normal levels in winter.
• Production of serotonin – serotonin is a hormone that affects mood, appetite and sleep; a lack of sunlight may lead to lower serotonin levels, which is linked to feelings of depression.
• Circadian rhythm – the body uses sunlight to time various important functions, such as when to wake up, so lower light levels during the winter may disrupt the body clock and lead to symptoms of SAD.

Seasonal affective disorder is a kind of depression, with many of the typical symptoms of depression, such as :

• a persistent low mood
• a loss of pleasure or interest in normal everyday activities
• irritability
• feelings of despair, guilt and worthlessness
• feeling lethargic (lacking in energy) and sleepy during the day
• sleeping for longer than normal and finding it hard to get up in the morning
• craving carbohydrates and gaining weight
• difficulty concentrating

How can employers help?

Employers can play an important role in helping support the wellbeing of their employees during this time. Consider the following:

• Where possible, allow flexible working hours to increase daylight exposure. In December and January, the sun rises around 8am and sets around 4pm in southern England. Employers may wish to commute to work between this time to increase their exposure to the sun. Starting at 9am will allow a good dose of sunlight on the way to work.
• Maximise daylight in the office. As simple as that – consider how the office is arranged so that the office is arranged to maximise exposure to natural light.
• Promote physical activity. Recent research demonstrated that exercise before work improves emotional wellbeing and engagement. See our blog about this research here.

Employers’ Responsibilities

Depression is considered a disability under UK employment law. Employers should be careful to ensure they make reasonable adjustments to accommodate individuals suffering from depression.

Employers who fail to make reasonable adjustments may be limited to unlimited fines should a successful complaint be progressed to an employment tribunal. For more advice, contact HR First and stay compliant and protect your team with our Health & Safety Services.