Your team might be SAD...

As we embrace the winter season, it's important to recognize and address the impact of Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) on our team's well-being.

SAD is a type of depression characterized by a recurrent seasonal pattern, with symptoms lasting about 4?5 months out of the year.

It typically occurs each year during fall and winter.

Shorter daylight hours, cause a decrease in vitamin D and serotonin and an increase in melatonin in the brain.

These brain chemistry changes can contribute to:

?? Fatigue

?? Persistent sad, anxious, or "empty" mood

?? Difficulty making decisions and concentrating

?? Irritability and frustration

?? Physical aches/pains

?? Suicidal thoughts or attempts

SAD can affect anyone, and as employers, it's our responsibility to create a supportive environment.

Here are 5 strategies to help your employees navigate this challenging time:

?? Flexible Scheduling

Consider offering flexible work hours or remote work options to accommodate individuals struggling with SAD.

This flexibility can help them manage their energy levels and maintain a healthier work-life balance.

?? Wellness Programs

Introduce wellness programs that specifically address mental health.

Whether it's yoga classes, meditation sessions, or mental health workshops, providing resources can make a significant impact.

I recently partnered with FitPros to facilitate a workshop on this topic and shared tools that employees can use to navigate SAD and other mental health concerns.

DM me if you'd like to set up a workshop for your team!

?? Well-Lit Workspaces

Ensure that workspaces are well-lit with natural light or high-quality artificial lighting.

Exposure to natural light has been shown to improve mood and alleviate symptoms of SAD.

?? Encourage Breaks

Remind employees to take breaks and step outside, even if it's just for a few minutes.

Fresh air and a change of scenery can do wonders for one's mental health.

?? Team-building Activities:

Organize team-building activities that promote social interaction and a positive atmosphere.

Connecting with colleagues can provide a sense of community and support.

Remember, small gestures can make a big difference.

By fostering a culture of support and understanding, we contribute to a workplace where everyone feels valued, regardless of their challenges.

Let's prioritize the well-being of our team members during the winter months and beyond!

Reach out if you'd like to partner in supporting your team's mental health and holistic wellbeing.

Hi! ????

I'm Dr. Adeola Mead, a Naturopathic Physician and Workplace Wellbeing Consultant with 15+ years of experience.

My brand of holistic wellbeing coaching and consulting focuses primarily on improving mental and physical health to create greater individual & team capacity to achieve personal, professional, and leadership goals.

When we are holistically healthy, we perform better and so do our teams!

As a fractional chief wellbeing officer, I consult with individual team members and act as a liaison between leadership and employees to promote retention and ensure high ROI on wellbeing initiatives.

I help to facilitate a strong sense of connection that creates a thriving culture.

Contact us for a complimentary care consult or corporate collaboration consult.