With 1 in 3 people suffering the effects of SAD, Bournemouth based HR consultancy, Purple HR offers advice to help employers on the most depressing day of the year.
Monday 16th January is statistically the most depressing day of the year. Dubbed ‘Blue Monday’ it coincides with the end of the festive period, strained bank accounts, waistline anxiety and the season most associated with symptoms of SAD (Seasonal Affective Disorder). Offering her advice, Mandy Fitzmaurice, Managing Director at Purple HR, aims to help employers through this difficult time of year.
Affecting employees throughout January, the symptoms of SAD or Winter depression, include a persistent low mood, a loss of pleasure or interest in normal everyday activities and increased irritability. Alongside Blue Monday, the most depressing day of the year, business owners and managers can expect a rise in employee absence and a lull in team morale. For small to medium-sized companies, this can lead to lower productivity and loss of income. To combat Blue Monday and raise employee spirits, experienced HR director Mandy Fitzmaurice makes a number of useful suggestions.
Mandy Fitzmaurice, comments:
“January has long been established as one of the most challenging times of year for businesses. To keep morale and engagement high, business leaders must look at ways to boost happiness in the workplace. Simple measures such as encouraging employees to exercise works wonders. Try setting up an office jogging group or arrange a team sports activity at your local playing field. This will raise endorphins and improve everyone’s mood. One of the best things to do is to encourage everyone to take their lunch breaks and get away from their desks for a while.”
Additionally, Mandy suggests encouraging staff to spend time outside for fresh air and some winter sunshine during regular breaks.
Mandy continues:
“Giving everyone the opportunity to make the most out of scarce winter sunshine is one of the best ways to combat illnesses associated with this time of year, including SAD or seasonal affective disorder. To boost general moral in the workplace I also suggest, brightening the room with colourful artwork or office plants. By building a rapport, dealing with employee’s empathetically, rewarding success and sharing good news you will also have taken some great steps to tackle depression in the workplace.”
For more information about Purple HR, contact 01202 801047 or visit: www.purplehr.co.uk
