Mental Health and Wellbeing Information

Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD)?

What is Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD)?

Seasonal affective disorder (SAD) is a type of depression that comes and goes in a seasonal pattern and is sometimes known as "winter depression" because the symptoms are more apparent during the winter.

Symptoms often begin in autumn as the days start getting shorter and are typically more severe during December, January and February.

New research has revealed that Nearly a quarter of UK employers have encountered Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) in the workplace.

SAD often improves and disappears in the spring and summer, although it may return each autumn and winter in a repetitive pattern.

Symptoms of Seasonal Affective Disorder

  • A persistent low mood
  • A loss of pleasure or interest in normal everyday activities
  • Irritability
  • Feelings of despair, guilt and worthlessness
  • Feeling lethargic (lacking in energy) 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

Possible Impacts in the Workplace

  • Increased sickness absence
  • Performance issues
  • Being late for work
  • Finding it difficult to carry out everyday tasks
  • Unable to concentrate
  • Working relationship issues
  • Mood changes
  • Anxiety
  • Panic attacks
  • Having colds, infections and other illnesses

How can I help myself?

It could be worth trying some self help techniques which may help to improve your symptoms:

  • Try to get as much natural sunlight as possible, even a brief lunchtime walk can be beneficial
  • Make your work and home environments as light and airy as possible
  • Sit near windows when you're indoors
  • Take plenty of regular exercise, particularly outdoors and in daylight
  • Eat a healthy balanced diet
  • If possible, avoid stressful situations and take steps to manage stress
  • Try talking to your family, friends or work colleagues about SAD, so that they understand how your mood changes during the winter. This can help them to support you more effectively.

If you are finding it difficult to manage your symptoms, contact your GP or have a discussion with your line manager who may refer you to Occupational Health. 

You can access our self help page for advice and tips: How to maintain positive mental health & wellbeing