Workplace Options News: Depression Leaves Employees in the Dark

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Depression Leaves Employees in the Dark

Workplace Options Offers Tips for Beating the Winter Blues

Contact:
Christine Hall
chall@capstrat.com
919-882-1998

17 February 2010 – Raleigh, NC – — 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:

Continue with normal activities – Sticking with your summertime routine of socializing with friends, attending events and getting out around town shouldn’t come to a screeching halt when the temperature drops. Maintaining an engaging routine will help bring some normalcy to life and keep boredom at bay.
Expose yourself to light whenever possible – Unless you are a vampire, your body and mind will benefit from a healthy amount of sunlight each day. Winter can be dark and dreary, but the benefits of bundling up and heading outdoors for a bit on a pleasant day far outweigh being cooped up indoors.
Maintain healthy eating habits – People who spend most of their time indoors are more prone to overeat, which can lead to feeling lethargic and can ultimately cause issues related to self esteem. A well-balanced diet will improve your health and keep the blues away.
Plan a trip or outing – An exotic tropical vacation may certainly help cheer up the entire family, but it’s not necessarily in everyone’s budget. Even if you are able to plan a fun day trip, or head somewhere the sun is shining, a small excursion away from everyday life will give you something to look forward to.
Exercise regularly – After losing interest in that New Year’s resolution to get in shape, heading out in the cold to work out might be the last thing people want to do. This is a perfect opportunity to embrace winter sports, or find ways to exercise indoors. Even vacuuming the house burns calories!
Stay connected with others – We all must endure the difficult weather and depressing surroundings together, so what better way to do it than surrounded by friends and family. Don’t view it as misery loves company, but rather company keeps away misery.

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 (WPO) is America's largest provider of work-life services. WPO's market-leading products are recognized for their innovative Web delivery, flexibility and affordable pricing. WPO also offers network management solutions and 24/7 call center services that help EAP's run their businesses more profitably and efficiently. For more information about WPO, please visit www.workplaceoptions.com.