The Impact of the Clocks Going Back on Mental Health, Physical Health, and Wellbeing.
With the clocks going back, many of us enjoy an extra hour of sleep. But the shift also brings earlier sunsets and less daylight, impacting routines, mental health, productivity, engagement and overall wellbeing. Awareness of these changes can help us be resilient and support others who might struggle with anxiety, exhaustion, and mood shifts during these changes.
Mental Health Challenges: Anxiety, SAD, and Irritability
With less daylight, many people experience increased anxiety and irritability. The sudden change disrupts our body’s internal clock, or circadian rhythm, which manages sleep, mood, and hormone levels. This disruption can lead to restlessness, fatigue, and heightened anxiety as we adjust. Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD), also known as winter depression, becomes more common as days grow shorter and colder. This type of depression, linked to reduced sunlight exposure, can bring feelings of lethargy, hopelessness, and fatigue. These symptoms may affect productivity and relationships, especially as we juggle work and home responsibilities with less light. In fact, research suggests that around 1 in 30 people in the UK is diagnosed with SAD, with many more experiencing milder forms of seasonal low mood.
Physical Health Effects: Exhaustion and Workplace Productivity
Shorter days and cooler temperatures often lead to physical exhaustion, which can dampen workplace productivity and cooperation. Disruptions in sleep patterns can lead to daytime drowsiness, affecting focus and overall energy at work. Employers may notice more employees feeling lethargic or finding it hard to stay engaged during these seasonal shifts.
Coping Mechanisms in the Workplace: Caffeine, Sugar, and Tobacco
In professional settings, quick fixes like caffeine and sugary snacks are common ways employees try to push through the day. While an occasional boost may help, reliance on these can lead to afternoon crashes, mood swings, and irritability, impacting team dynamics and job satisfaction.
Healthier Coping Strategies for the Workplace
To promote resilience and wellbeing among employees, employers can consider implementing the following strategies:
Light Therapy in Common Areas: Bringing in light therapy lamps can help boost employees’ moods and energy levels.
Mindfulness Breaks: Providing short guided meditation sessions or creating dedicated quiet spaces allows employees to recharge.
Group Exercise or Walking Meetings: Encouraging physical activity during lunch breaks or organising walking meetings can improve team morale and provide natural light exposure.
Healthy Snacks: Opting for whole foods rather than sugary snacks helps maintain energy levels and reduces mood swings. eg fruits, seeds, and protein bars.
Sleep Hygiene Support: Encourage employees to establish relaxing pre-sleep routines, such as reading or practicing relaxation techniques, to support better rest.
Connection Opportunities: Facilitating social interactions, such as team lunches or informal gatherings, fosters a sense of belonging and releases stress-reducing hormones.
Conclusion:
The clock change can be challenging, but with the right tools, we can adjust our routines and support each other through the seasonal shifts. Embracing healthier habits like wholesome meals, hydration, light therapy, exercise, and connection can boost resilience, helping us maintain our mental and physical wellbeing throughout the season. This time of year also offers an excellent opportunity for organisations to enhance their team’s social wellbeing through Away Days or team bonding events. Consider connecting with SVH Inc. to plan an event that fosters connection, wellbeing, and resilience in your team.
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