What is Seasonal Affective Disorder?

Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) is a type of depression that is related to changes in seasons and begins and ends at the same time every year.

It is often called ‘winter depression’ as most people with SAD start to feel a decrease in energy and increase in low mood in the winter months.

It currently affects up to three in 100 people in the UK at some point during their life. Most people first start to get symptoms in their 20s or 30s, but children can be affected too and women are about four times more likely to have SAD than men.

SAD has been linked to a biochemical imbalance in the brain prompted by shorter daylight hours and less sunlight in winter. As seasons change, people experience a shift in their biological internal clock that can cause them to be out of step with their daily schedule.

What can you do as an employer when it comes to SAD?

As a business and as an employer, it can be beneficial to know the signs and symptoms of SAD, so you can offer support to your colleagues and employees.

Signs and symptoms of SAD include:

  • Feeling depressed for most of the day.
  • Losing interest in activities you once enjoyed.
  • Experiencing changes in appetite or weight.
  • Having problems with sleep.
  • Feeling sluggish or agitated.
  • Having low energy.
  • Feeling hopeless or worthless.
  • Having difficulty concentrating.

Mental Health First Aid Courses

Our Mental Health First Aid Courses can help you understand how to recognise SAD and other mental health illness and give you the confidence to offer support.

Our training courses have been proven to lower absenteeism and staff turnover, as well as increase productivity and employee wellbeing.

BN She’s Mental Health First Aid Courses run throughout 2022. They will give you the tools to help ensure your colleagues and employees make their way to recovery from SAD, with your knowledge and understanding.

If your business is looking for courses and support regarding mental health training, or you are interested in becoming a Mental Health First Aider, visit www.bnsheconsultancy.com/training

Alternatively you can call us on 07584 125665, or email info@bnshe.co.uk and we will be happy to help.

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