Supporting Staff Through the Winter Months: Why It Matters

As winter approaches, many workplaces are gearing up for colder weather and shorter daylight hours, but it's vital to prepare for a less visible challenge too: the seasonal rise in stress, depression, and anxiety. Known as the “winter blues” or Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD), this is more than just a dip in mood, it’s a real concern that impacts team wellbeing, productivity, and workplace culture.

The Facts You Should Know

• In the UK, around 1 in 20 people are diagnosed with Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) every year (Healthwatch UK).

• Up to 44% of UK workers report that winter negatively impacts their mental health (Humber & North Yorkshire Health and Care Partnership).

• Nearly 30% of UK workers say that increased illness during the winter negatively impacts their productivity (HR Review, Employee Management Ltd).

These stats highlight why employers should consider winter mental health proactively, not just for wellbeing, but for maintaining engagement, reducing absenteeism, and safeguarding performance through the season.

5 Steps Employers Can Take to Support Staff This Winter

1. Increase Natural Light or Provide Light Therapy Solutions
   If possible, encourage work near windows or set up communal light boxes. Light therapy helps reset circadian rhythms and can significantly lift mood.

2. Promote Flexible Routines and Outdoor Breaks
   Allow staff to step outside for short walks or fresh air during daylight hours to boost mood and serotonin.

3. Encourage Connection and Community
   Winter can bring isolation. Facilitate team check-ins or casual co-working sessions to keep morale high and reduce stress.

4. Offer Practical Wellbeing Resources
   Share tips on vitamin D, healthy sleep, and stress awareness. Provide access to webinars or external support for managing seasonal mood shifts.

5. Provide Soft Skills Training Focused on Resilience
   Offer courses in stress management, emotional intelligence, and mental resilience to equip staff with tools they can use when winter gets tough.

How ClickHSE Helps Employers in Winter and Beyond

At ClickHSE, we understand that mental wellbeing is as essential as physical safety. That is why our Soft Skills Training includes modules on stress management, resilience, and mental health designed to help staff proactively manage seasonal challenges.

Our courses offer:

• CPD-accredited, practical training that fits around schedules

• Engaging, interactive content that applies immediately

• Supportive, bite-sized learning perfect for busy winter months

In Conclusion

Winter is more than a change of season, it is a period that demands emotional foresight. By embracing light-enhancing strategies, encouraging connection, and equipping your team with the right skills, you build a resilient workplace culture.

Ready to support your team’s wellbeing this winter? Explore our Soft Skills Training and empower your staff with tools to thrive through the darker months.