Spotting and Managing Seasonal Affective Disorder in the Workplace

The clocks have gone back, the mornings are darker, and by the time many of us finish work, the sun has already set. For some people, this change of season brings more than a grumble about the weather. It can affect how they feel, sleep, work and connect with others.

At PAR Group, we want everyone on our team to feel supported all year round. So we've put up posters across our sites on seasonal affective disorder (SAD), and we're sharing the key points here.

What is SAD?

Seasonal affective disorder is a type of depression that usually comes and goes with the seasons. It's most often seen in winter, as days shorten and there's less sunlight. It's more than "winter blues". The symptoms can be persistent and make everyday life, including work, feel harder.

How to spot SAD

Everyone feels a bit flat now and then. What matters is a pattern of changes that lasts, particularly if it returns around the same time each year. Signs to look out for, in yourself or in colleagues, include:

Low mood: feeling sad, down or unusually tearful. This can also show up as anxiety.
Low energy: feeling tired, lacking motivation or struggling to get going.
Withdrawing: losing interest in activities or wanting to spend more time alone.
Changes in sleep: sleeping more than usual or finding it hard to get up in the morning.
Changes in appetite: changes in eating habits or increased cravings.
Difficulty concentrating: finding it harder to focus or make decisions.

How to manage SAD

Small, regular habits can make a real difference to mood and energy through the darker months:

Enjoy the sunlight: Get outside during daylight hours where you can, even for a short walk on your break.
Keep a routine: Try to keep regular times for sleeping, eating, working and taking breaks.
Keep moving: Regular activity can help support your mood and energy levels.
Prioritise sleep: Build good sleep habits and give yourself time to wind down before bed.
Stay connected: Keep in touch with friends, family and colleagues, even when you'd rather stay in.
Supporting each other at work

Managers and colleagues can help by making it easy to talk. A simple "How are you really doing?" over a brew can open the door. Encourage people to take their breaks, get outside at lunchtime, and let them know it's okay to ask for support.

Support is available

All PAR Group employees have access to the Wisdom Health app for professional support. If you'd like help getting started, speak to one of our Mental Health First Aiders.

If symptoms are affecting your daily life or aren't improving, it's also worth speaking to your GP, as there are effective treatments for SAD. If you ever feel you're in crisis or want to talk to someone right now, Samaritans are available 24/7 on 116 123.

Looking after your wellbeing isn't a weakness. It helps you, your team and the people around you. As the nights draw in, let's look out for one another.