We’ve just reached the Winter halfway point, but for many of us it still feels like it’ll be a long time before getting out of bed gets any easier.
And according to corporate health expert Ireene Siniakis, the weather could very well be affecting our mood, morale and overall productivity.
She says the “Winter Blues” is not just a term some of us like to throw around to dismiss how we feel, but a colloquial name for Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) – something all of us should be mindful of during the colder months, particularly amongst our own colleagues and employees.
The affects of SAD include tiredness, anxiousness and moodiness. While it may only involve a low a level of depression or slight mood swings, it can affect our interactions and relationships with others at work.
“When you’re cold, lonely and isolated, it can bring on symptoms of depression even more,” she tells Women’s Agenda, noting that women suffer from the ‘Winter Blues’ at higher rates than men.
While it’s more common in countries with colder climates than Australia, those working in Southern cities like Melbourne can be affected.
Siniakis believes being aware of Winter Blues symptoms can help in looking out for the signs and seeking to manage them.
She suggests the following strategies to help:
- Cherish your sleep: With darker nights, go to bed earlier to ensure a minimum of seven hours of restful sleep.
- Know your purpose at work: When your working life feels mundane and boring it’s important to clarify bigger picture goals.
- Choose your affirmations: To combat boredom and low energy at work, choose affirmations, or a statement that resonates with you. This is something you can repeat to lift your spirits and reassure you that work and life are in a good place.
- Pump up your playlist: Set the soundtrack to lift stamina. Listen to upbeat, dance tunes during your commute and/ or while sitting at your desk with ear plugs.
- Sunshine vitamins: Because vitamin D is produced in your skin in response to sunlight, working long hours indoors can cause vitamin D deficiency. To combat this, eat extra salmon, egg yolk and yoghurt.