Building a Mind-fit Workforce: Insights from the Seasonal Affective Disorder session

31 Jan 2025

Local businesses praised the practical advice and mental health and wellbeing information about Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) from NHS professionals at the latest Mind-fit Workforce networking event.

The session, organised by Raising Health, the registered charity of Leicestershire Partnership NHS Trust (LPT) was held online on Monday 20 January. Designed as a strategic partnership to support businesses, this program builds on LPT’s mental health expertise in order to equip business leaders, wellbeing champions, and community advocates with valuable tools and knowledge to enhance workplace wellbeing.

Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) is a type of depression linked to seasonal changes and reduced sunlight during winter months. With shorter, darker days still lingering, the topic was timely and deeply relevant to many on the call and beyond. LPT’s Cognitive Behavioural Psychotherapists, Leanne Taylor and Michelle Smith, delivered an insightful presentation that combined science-backed understanding with practical solutions for supporting people with SAD.

SAD, classified in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5-TR) as a major depressive disorder with a seasonal pattern, is more prevalent in regions farther from the equator and disproportionately affects younger people and women. Symptoms can range from persistent low mood, changes in sleep and appetite, and loss of energy to feelings of worthlessness and, in severe cases, thoughts of death or suicide. The session emphasised how these symptoms can disrupt personal and professional lives if left unaddressed.

The discussion explored how negative thought patterns, withdrawal, and inactivity contribute to SAD’s cyclical nature. Participants learned about breaking this cycle through actionable strategies:

Increasing activity levels:

Evidence shows that staying active can significantly reduce depressive symptoms. Attendees were encouraged to set realistic goals and gradually introduce routine, pleasurable, and social activities into their schedules. Tools like the "five-minute rule" and creating a hierarchy of manageable tasks were introduced to help combat low motivation.

Caring for the body:

The session highlighted how physical health influences mental wellbeing. Suggestions included increasing Vitamin D intake, using light therapy to boost serotonin levels, practicing relaxation techniques to ease stress, and paying attention to nutrition.

Managing negative thoughts:

Cognitive strategies such as challenging negative thoughts, mindfulness, and problem-solving were shared to help participants reshape their thinking and improve emotional resilience.

Additionally, workplace adaptations were discussed as a means to support employees during winter months. These included promoting flexible working arrangements, using light boxes, encouraging outdoor breaks, and fostering a culture of compassion and understanding.

One attendee, Dhruv Pandya (FCCA) of AIMS - Accountants for Business, summed up the session: "The presentation was beneficial. Thanks for sharing the slides. It will help make me get happy and not stay SAD!"

By participating in these Mind-fit Workforce networking sessions, attendees not only gain a deeper understanding of mental health challenges like SAD but also leave with practical strategies to improve their wellbeing and that of their teams.

Stay connected and learn more about coming sessions: lpt.raisinghealth@nhs.net