While many of us go into a sort of ‘natural hibernation mode’ in winter and grumble and complain as the days turn shorter, a lot of people suffer from a condition called Seasonal Affective Disorder - SAD, popularly know as the ‘Winter Blues’
People suffering from SAD typically feel lethargic, depressed and withdrawn. They sleep more, eat more and crave carbohydrates and sweets. They also become irritable and impatient, have trouble thinking clearly and quickly, and tend to make more mistakes. Usually, symptoms cease after winter is over; for people suffering from severe cases of SAD, light therapy and counseling are advised.
Research indicates that SAD is caused by inadequate light during winter, which creates an imbalance in brain chemistry. In his book, Winter Blues: Everything You Need To Know To Beat Seasonal Disorder, Norman E. Rosenthal states that even people living in cities that are sunny during the winter suffer from Seasonal Affective Disorder. He attributes this due to decreased exposure to direct sunlight. Additionally, some researchers and psychologist point out that December is also a nostalgic month for many people, and as a result, they are prone to being depressed.
There are a number of initiatives that employers can implement to help arm employees against Seasonal Affective Disorder:
ü Position Desks near windows or install sufficient lighting.
ü Encourage employees to exercise daily and eat healthy
ü Organize Lunch ‘n’ Learn seminars or provide written information on how better to deal with Seasonal Affective Disorder
ü Provide counseling services.
Perhaps the last word about SAD goes to Stephan Covey, who in The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People writes that proactive people carry their weather with them. He suggest that people should concentrate on the things they have control over and can change, rather than being counterproductive and wasting energy complaining about the Cold and Dark.
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