Skip to main content
Marsh logo

Article

Seasonal affective disorder (SAD)...what is it?

As the days begin to get shorter and colder, the uncertainty of COVID-19 continues to place a heavy burden on mental health. Even those without seasonal depression might be more vulnerable to a decline in mood.

07/10/2020 · 3 minute read

As the days begin to get shorter and colder, the uncertainty of COVID-19 continues to place a heavy burden on mental health. As such, not only may people who experience seasonal depression have a more difficult time, but also people who generally don't experience seasonal depression might be more vulnerable to a decline in mood.

Seasonal affective disorder (SAD) is a type of depression that is related to changes in the seasons. It usually starts in the autumn or winter and improves in the spring. The symptoms are similar to those of normal depression, but they occur repetitively at a particular time of year.

Will the Pandemic Make Seasonal Depression Worse?

Daily routines, such as the commute to work, have clearly shifted over the course of the pandemic and will likely continue to do so as the seasons change. Even sectors that have had some relief from the virus during the summer may be more acutely impacted duringa second wave when colder weather sets in. This could lead to another shutdown of businesses – and a reappearance of anxiety relating to potential job losses. These disruptions to routines and job uncertainties could lead to more cases SAD this year, and ultimately more sick days and reduced productivity.

Furthermore, some typical SAD treatment methods might be not be accessible during restricted periods. Those with SAD are often encouraged to get outside more, exercise, and stay connected with friends; participating in these activities is more difficult as a result of the pandemic.

How to Fight Seasonal Depression during the Pandemic

According to the NHS there are a number of simple actions that may help improve SAD symptoms, including:

  • Getting as much natural sunlight as possible — even a brief lunchtime walk can be beneficial.
  • Making your work and home environments as light and airy as possible.
  • Sitting near windows when you are indoors.
  • Taking plenty of regular exercise, particularly outdoors and in daylight — read more about exercise for depression.
  • Eating a healthy, balanced diet.
  • Avoiding stressful situations where possible and taking steps to manage stress. 
  • Explore Light Therapy — this involves sitting by a special lamp called a light box, usually around 30 minutes to an hour each morning. This is believed to provide short-term symptom relief.

As well as the above, the following support can be recommended to employees:

  • Plan things to look forward to, no matter how big or small; have at least something to look forward to once a week.
  • Embrace the power of sunrise – get up with the sunrise, exposure to the bright light early in the morning causes to the production of melatonin earlier in the evening, keeping sleep schedules on track.
  • Meditate – this can have a positive impact on mood because it boosts serotonin levels. Through meditation, the mind can be calmed and anxious or negative thoughts avoided.
  • Contact the GPfor a short assessment that can  establish the need for antidepressants.
  • Utilise EAP and talk to a counsellor about how you are feeling.

Meet the author

Lorna Feeney

Head of Mental Health, UK & Ireland

Related insights

Placeholder Image

Article

Business Continuity Management: How to boost its effectiveness

05/11/2024
Multi color blocks

Report

Building risk resilience into your business strategy

09/10/2024
dashboard data analytics on the screen of digital tablet computer, financial report statistics

Podcast

Risk in Context Podcast: Unravelling complex supply chains through a data-driven visibility strategy

01/10/2024
View more