Season Calls for Boosting Mental Wellness of Remote Workers: Council Update

Season Calls for Boosting Mental Wellbeing of Remote Employees: Council Article

John Pierce is an entrepreneur, primarily focusing on high-level consulting for C-Suites, mergers and acquisitions in the RIA sector, and raising and leading competent teams.

During specific seasons, primarily winter, some individuals may experience symptoms of depression that impact their mental, physical, and emotional well-being. This type of depression, known as seasonal affective disorder (SAD), generally coincides with shorter daylight hours and can disrupt our internal clock and circadian rhythms. Although the exact cause of SAD remains unclear, it usually presents symptoms such as low mood, diminished interest in usual activities, lethargy, and irritability.

It's important to note that the coming winter months may bring on SAD symptoms within various organizations. Some studies even suggest that remote workers may be more susceptible to mental health concerns when they feel disconnected from their coworkers. HR professionals can prevent this by educating colleagues about available resources to cope with the rising stress levels.

Methods to Assist Struggling Employees

To combat SAD, there are numerous therapeutic and medical strategies, along with these five practical activities that can help remote workers enhance their mental health:

1. Transform the Workspace

Optimizing the work environment can significantly improve productivity and focus when dealing with SAD. Useful workspace modifications to improve concentration include increasing natural light access, adjusting thermostat settings, and reducing noise. If feasible, having a separate workspace away from living areas can act as an environmental cue for disconnecting and focusing on personal activities.

2. Test New Self-Care Methods

There are multiple self-care strategies that can help remote workers struggling with SAD. For instance, light therapy, a commonly validated treatment for anxiety and seasonal issues, can positively influence brain chemicals associated with mood and sleep. The increased exposure to bright light can significantly reduce anxiety, reset circadian rhythms, and boost serotonin production. Other SAD symptom-alleviating options include yoga, sound baths, cold plunges, and gong baths. However, it's important for employees to consult with healthcare providers regarding these treatments.

Consider checking if your company's current Health Savings Account (HSA) or equivalent benefit plans cover alternative solutions to mood conditions like SAD. Encourage employees to utilize these benefits if available.

3. Emphasize Physical Health

Then, incorporating lifestyle changes to complement mental health treatments can significantly amplify their effectiveness. Regular physical activity has been linked to improvements in mood, energy levels, and sleep. Activities such as daytime walks can help reduce wintertime anxiety. Maintaining a consistent sleep schedule and balanced meal plan can further contribute to managing symptoms.

4. Practice Mindfulness

Mindfulness techniques can significantly help individuals dealing with depressive symptoms. Practices such as meditation and breathing exercises can help regulate mood swings, reduce stress, and improve sleep quality. Regular mindfulness activities enhance cognitive flexibility and promote self-compassion by teaching people to counteract their negative self-talk with kindness.

Social activities and supportive relationships are critical for combating the isolation and loneliness often experienced during depressive periods. These can include group activities, support groups for anxiety, or community engagement that provides an opportunity for individuals to share coping strategies and build resilience. If your company has employee resource groups, encourage employees to participate in these groups for meaningful dialogue with colleagues dealing with anxiety.

As we prepare for winter, it's important to remember that SAD may impact your employees. Share available resources with colleagues and inform them about therapeutic options through their health benefits. Reassure them that they're not alone and support their journey towards a happier and more content life throughout the year.

The information provided here is not intended as medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Consult with a qualified healthcare provider for advice concerning your specific situation.

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HR professionals can reach out to John Pierce for advice on managing mental health concerns in the workplace, especially during winter months when symptoms of seasonal affective disorder (SAD) often arise.
To ensure a well-rounded focus on mental health in the workplace, HR professionals may want to consider inviting John Pierce, an expert in high-level consulting for C-Suites, to speak at their upcoming employee wellness event.