December 2023 International Blog – Seasonal Affective Disorder
More than just the “winter blues”
Have you noticed how everyone’s spirits lift when the days begin to lengthen in Spring, when shorts and sandals are fished out of wardrobes again?
Conversely, as winter descends, our mood seems to match the gloomy weather.
By mid-evening, it’s so dark outside that I’m already checking my watch to see whether it’s bedtime! My belief is that we all suffer Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) to some degree.
Seasonal Affective Disorder is a type of depression that typically occurs around the same time each year, usually in the autumn and winter months when there is less natural sunlight.
While the exact cause of SAD is not fully understood, several factors are believed to contribute to its development:
- Reduced Sunlight: One of the leading theories behind SAD is that reduced exposure to natural sunlight during the winter months can disrupt the body's internal clock (circadian rhythm) and lead to changes in the production of certain neurotransmitters, such as serotonin and melatonin affecting mood and sleep patterns:
- Serotonin Levels: Serotonin plays a crucial role in regulating mood. Reduced exposure to sunlight can lead to lower levels of serotonin in the brain, which is associated with depression and mood disorders.
- Melatonin Levels: Melatonin is a hormone that helps regulate sleep patterns and is influenced by light exposure. In individuals with SAD, disrupted light patterns can lead to overproduction of melatonin, contributing to symptoms of fatigue and drowsiness – even after a long night’s sleep.
- Biological Clock Disruption: The reduced daylight in the autumn and winter can disrupt the body's internal biological clock, leading to changes in sleep-wake cycles and other circadian rhythms.
- Genetic Factors: There is evidence to suggest that genetics may play a role in SAD susceptibility. Individuals with a family history of mood disorders, such as depression or bipolar disorder, may be at a higher risk of developing SAD.
- Environmental Factors: Geographic location can also be a factor in the development of Seasonal Affective Disorder. SAD is more common in regions with long, dark winters and less prevalent in areas with consistent sunlight throughout the year.
- Hormonal Factors: Hormonal changes, such as fluctuations in thyroid hormones, may also be involved in the development of SAD in some individuals.
Symptoms of SAD can include:
· Low mood, loss of pleasure or interest in normal everyday activities,
· Irritability,
· Feeling lethargic 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.
The treatment of SAD often involves light therapy (exposure to bright artificial light), psychotherapy, and in some cases, medication. If you or someone you know is experiencing symptoms of SAD, it's important to seek help from a healthcare professional for a proper evaluation and treatment plan.
Impact on work
Seasonal Affective Disorder can have a significant impact on workplace health & safety in various ways:
· Decreased Productivity: SAD often leads to symptoms such as fatigue, lack of motivation, and difficulty concentrating, which can reduce an employee's productivity. Decreased productivity can affect the quality of work and increase the risk of errors, which can have safety implications, especially in jobs that require attention to detail or which involve operating machinery.
· Absenteeism: Employees with SAD may be more likely to take sick days or extended leaves of absence during the winter months when symptoms are most severe. Frequent absenteeism can disrupt workflow, strain co-worker relationships, and increase the workload for others, potentially leading to burnout and safety risks.
· Increased Accidents: SAD can cause fatigue and a lack of focus, which can increase the risk of accidents. In industries such as manufacturing, construction, and transportation, impaired attention and slower reaction times can lead to injuries or accidents that jeopardise the safety of both the affected employee and their colleagues.
· Mood and Interpersonal Issues: SAD can lead to mood swings, irritability, and social withdrawal. This can impact workplace dynamics and lead to conflicts or strained relationships among employees, which may, in turn, affect workplace safety by undermining communication and cooperation among team members.
· Risk of Substance Abuse: Some individuals with SAD may turn to alcohol or other substances as a way to self-medicate and cope with their symptoms. Substance abuse can impair judgment and coordination, increasing the risk of accidents and risk-taking in the workplace.
· Decreased Safety Compliance: Employees with SAD may be less likely to follow safety procedures and guidelines due to their diminished motivation and energy levels. This can result in non-compliance with safety procedures, potentially leading to accidents or injuries.
What can employers do?
To mitigate the impact of SAD on workplace health and safety, employers can take several proactive steps:
· Awareness and Education: Employers can raise awareness about SAD and its potential effects on employees' well-being and job performance. Providing education and resources on the disorder can help employees recognise symptoms and seek appropriate treatment.
· Flexible Work Arrangements: Offering flexible work hours or remote work options during the winter months can help employees with SAD manage their symptoms and maintain productivity while reducing the risk of accidents caused by impaired functioning.
· Adequate Lighting: Ensuring that workplaces have sufficient and appropriate lighting can help alleviate some of the symptoms of SAD. Natural light and bright, well-lit workspaces can have a positive impact on mood and energy levels. First thing in the morning, I once saw an employee sitting in front of a light therapy box on their desk, trying to artificially boost their light-exposure.
· Employee Assistance Programs (EAPs): Employers can provide access to EAPs that offer counselling and support for employees struggling with SAD or other mental health issues. EAPs can help employees cope with their symptoms and reduce the impact on workplace safety.
· Safety Training and Monitoring: Continue to provide regular safety training and monitoring to ensure that all employees, including those with SAD, understand and follow safety procedures.
· Encourage Open Communication: Create a workplace culture that encourages employees to openly communicate about their mental health concerns and seek help when needed. This can help identify and address potential safety risks early on.
It's important for employers to recognise that SAD is a legitimate health condition and to provide the necessary support and accommodations to affected employees to maintain a safe and healthy work environment.
Contact us
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