RALEIGH, N.C., February 17, 2010 -- Americans have already been feeling the chill this season, and if the groundhog Punxsutawney Phil's predictions are true, they are in for six more weeks of winter. Unfortunately, the cold winter months tend to keep workers stuck indoors and suffering from cabin fever, which can lead to the winter blues, or in more serious cases, seasonal affective disorder (SAD), a form of depression. And according to a recent survey commissioned by Workplace Options, a leading provider of work-life benefits, workers ages 18 to 29 are 3.5 times more likely to have symptoms of winter depression affect their ability to concentrate at work.
SAD, or winter depression, is generally brought on by a reduced level of sunlight and change in season and can lead to symptoms such as depression, hopelessness, anxiety, loss of energy, oversleeping and weight gain. Thankfully, much can be done to counter the effects of the winter blues, and seeking ways to do so can be as simple as discussing your mood with friends. Survey results show that women may have the advantage over men here, with 67 percent being willing to discuss their symptoms with others, compared with only 33 percent of men.
"There is a close connection between a person's physical and mental state, which is how changes in one's environment can lead to a change in their emotional health," explained Dirk Hansen, vice president of global clinical quality and outcomes at Workplace Options. "One of the biggest mistakes people make in dealing with winter blues or more serious cases of winter depression is isolating themselves from others and not continuing with activities and routines that they're accustomed to and enjoy."
Nearly half (48 percent) of the people polled indicated that tips on alternative therapies to combat winter depression would be most effective in helping cope. Workplace Options offers the following tips to people suffering from the winter blues:
Since 69 percent of Americans list the first two months of the year as their least favorite time of the year, it is imperative that employers monitor staff closely during this time for signs of winter depression. As with other emotional strains that workers face, employers should be wary of winter depression and the toll it may have on workers.
"Employee productivity can be negatively affected by winter depression, which can ultimately have an effect on business during the winter months," said Hansen. "Employers might consider encouraging workers to take time during their lunch break to enjoy some fresh air and socialize with co-workers. Simple solutions like providing adequate lighting in the workplace can also combat the effects of the winter blues. Being proactive and taking easy preventative measures can help keep spirits high and employees motivated, even in the coldest months."
Hansen added that employers should look for warning signs of more serious conditions of winter depression. Cases can range from mild to severe, and employees may need to seek help from a medical professional. Many companies offer Employee Assistance Programs (EAPs) that can offer employees resources and counseling on issues such as winter depression or seasonal affective disorder. For more information please visit www.workplaceoptions.com/what-we-offer-global-eap.asp.
The national survey was conducted by the North Carolina firm of Public Policy Polling, January 18-19, 2010. The survey polled 504 working Americans and has a margin of error of +/- 4.4 percent. Full survey results can be viewed at www.workplaceoptions.com/polls.asp.
About Workplace Options
Workplace Options helps employees balance their work, family and personal life in order to make their lives healthier, easier and more productive. The company's world-class Employee Assistance Program (EAP) and work-life services provide information, resources, referrals and counseling on a variety of issues ranging from dependent care, legal and financial issues to mental health, stress management and addiction.
Drawing from an international network of credentialed providers and professionals, Workplace Options is the world's largest integrated EAP and work-life services provider, serving more than 22 million employees in 15,000 organizations, across 153 countries. To learn more, visit www.workplaceoptions.com.