Changes in the weather can affect our mood. Spring and summer can bring joy and excitement because we know that warmer weather means the beach, cookouts with friends, and making vacation memories with family. However, some changes in the weather can have a negative impact on our mood. Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD), a type of depression, occurs at certain times of the year. It is primarily known as winter depression and can occur in two forms: fall-onset (winter depression), which starts in late fall to early winter, and spring-onset (summer depression), which begins in late spring to early summer.
In the United Kingdom, about 1 in 3 people have SAD, 1 in 15 experience SAD each year, and 35% of the UK population admits to experiencing mood changes during autumn and winter. SAD can affect anyone, and there are stages to this mood-affecting disorder.
Nuffield Health states that SAD symptoms include persistent low mood, reduced interest in socializing, guilt, increased stress, irritability, disinterest in usual activities, concentration problems, feelings of despair and worthlessness, low self-esteem, and increased crying and tearfulness. Coping with these symptoms can significantly affect productivity, especially in high-energy, fast-paced industries like sales. Consequently, dealing with seasonal depression can have a negative impact on sales performance. This seasonal slump can manifest differently in each individual, but there are strategies one can use to mitigate this blah feeling. Here are three easy tips to support your team through this often challenging time.
Talk about it
The best way to ensure that SAD does not negatively impact your team is to talk about it. They might be feeling down and not understand why, so discussing what SAD is could help your team be aware of how changes in the weather can affect their mood and outlook on life. Plan to have open discussions about SAD year round: during the winter, summer, and the onset of spring and fall seasons. Talking openly about seasonal depression educates and empowers your team.
Embrace daylight
SAD was believed to be caused by reduced sunlight exposure in the winter and extended daylight hours during the summer season. Considering what we know about the benefits of the sun, spending time in the sun’s light during the winter months is a way to counteract this seasonal sadness. Light therapy lamps are also known to help alleviate symptoms of SAD. According to the NHS UK, light therapy works by sitting near a special lamp for about 30 minutes to an hour every morning. The bright light produced by a light box encourages the production of serotonin, which promotes feelings of happiness and joy. Ensuring your team takes breaks to enjoy some sun, whether from a lamp or the sky, could significantly improve their mood.
Prioritize mental health
Depression is a mental health issue that should not be taken lightly. If someone on your team begins to show signs of depression, they should be encouraged to prioritize their mental health. Taking time off, eating a balanced diet, and taking vitamins are small ways to start prioritizing one’s mental health. Prioritizing mental health is self-care, and no one can care for you but yourself. Encourage your team to evaluate their self-care regimen.
Seasonal affective disorder is not to be confused with the winter blues. Instead, businesses should consider how this seasonal disorder may impact their teams. Staying mindful of the health and well-being of your team is how you strengthen your work culture and brand image. When your teams are happy, healthy, and thriving, so is your business.