Many employees find their moods and energy levels impacted by the decreasing daylight hours in Winter. This is especially true if employees begin and end work when it is dark outside.
Shorter days and longer nights often cause employees to feel less motivated to work. Ten million people in the U.S. experience a type of depression called seasonal affective disorder (SAD).
As a manager, you must recognize the signs and support your employees who experience SAD. This helps increase employee engagement, performance, and productivity. It also improves retention and your bottom line.
Implement these tips to support your team’s mental health this Winter:
Understand the Signs of Seasonal Affective Disorder
- Starting work late
- Appearing unkempt
- Speaking in a monotone
- Withdrawing from others
- Displaying irritability or sudden mood swings
- Skipping meals
- Engaging in crying spells
- Having difficulty concentrating
- Feeling tired due to not sleeping at night
- Procrastinating
- Missing deadlines
- Talking about self-injury or suicide
Regularly Check In with Your Employees
Ensure your employees feel comfortable and supported in the workplace.
- Consult Human Resources if you believe an employee struggles with mental health concerns.
- Ask about your company’s mental health support resources for employees.
- Determine your company policy regarding taking time off for mental health support.
Privately Talk with a Struggling Employee
Follow company policy when privately talking with an employee with severe behavior change.
- Ask whether something is bothering the employee.
- Mention the specific changes in behavior you witnessed.
- Share that you are concerned about the employee.
- Please encourage them to talk about the issue.
- Actively listen without judging.
- Offer resources for mental health support.
Develop a Culture That Supports Mental Health
Talk with your employees about your mental health challenges. Encourage your employees to share their experiences as well. Show that asking for help is completely acceptable.
Share your preferred methods for mental health support. Find out which methods work best for your employees. Examples may include:
- Practicing yoga
- Meditating
- Reading
- Talking with family and friends
- Seeing a therapist
Need a Temporary Replacement for an Absent Team Member?
Talk with Connectology about bringing a temporary worker aboard when a team member is absent. Learn more today.