Statistics show that 10-20% of people in the US experience SAD during the winter months, with symptoms ranging from fatigue, low mood, and decreased motivation. In extreme cases, SAD can lead to depression and anxiety.
Here are some tips on how you can help employees fight seasonal depression in the workplace.
- Encourage outdoor activity: Encourage employees to take breaks during the day to go outside and get some fresh air and sunlight. This can help improve their mood and increase their energy levels.
- Brighten up the workplace: Brighten up the workplace by opening blinds, turning on lights and increasing natural light. This can help reduce feelings of sadness and fatigue.
- Promote physical activity: Encourage employees to participate in physical activities like yoga, stretching, or a light workout. This will boost endorphins, which will improve their mood and increase their energy levels.
- Offer flexible schedules: Allow employees to have flexible schedules, including working from home. This can help reduce stress and anxiety levels, leading to a happier and more productive workforce.
- Organize team building activities: Organize team building activities that involve physical and social activities. This can help improve team morale and create a positive atmosphere in the workplace.
- Provide resources for mental health: Provide resources for mental health, such as an Employee Assistance Program (EAP) or access to a mental health professional. Encourage employees to take advantage of these resources if they are experiencing symptoms of SAD.
- Offer healthy snacks: Junk food can make anyone feel worse but it's hard to resist when you're feeling down already. Offer healthy snacks in the office instead. Healthy body helps with a healthy mind!