Feeling SAD At Work? Follow These Tips
According to the American Academy of Family Physicians, 14 to 20 percent of Americans suffer from Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD). More women than men suffer from the disorder, and you’re more likely to develop the disorder as you age. Because SAD can affect your ability to work, learn how to overcome it this winter.
What is SAD?
Seasonal Affective Disorder occurs during the winter months when the days are shorter. It’s a form of clinical depression and affects your mood.
If you have SAD, you may experience numerous physical, emotional and cognitive symptoms that disrupt your life. These symptoms include:
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Sadness
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Fatigue
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Social withdrawal
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Irritability
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Appetite changes
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Low energy
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Difficulty concentrating
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Low productivity
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Loss of interest in work, hobbies and other activities
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Inability to function at work or home
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Absenteeism
Does Health Insurance Cover SAD Treatment?
You may use your health insurance to cover some of your SAD treatment. It will pay for your doctor visit and could also cover medication and medically necessary devices such as extra lights. You may need additional coverage to supplement time off work and other treatment options like dietary changes and exercise.
How is SAD Treated?
SAD affects everyone a bit differently, and you may experience mild to severe symptoms. See your doctor for an official diagnosis and treatment options that help you cope better with work and daily living tasks. Treatment options could include:
- Diet - Increase your fruit and veggie intake, and reduce sweets, caffeine and alcohol as you fuel your body with healthy foods and combat anxiety and stress.
- Exercise - Physical movement releases serotonin, your mood-boosting chemical, and relieves stress.
- Lights - Increase your exposure to natural light and its mood-enhancing properties when you spend time outside, sit near a window or use a light box.
- Medication - Antidepressants can relieve symptoms and help you cope with SAD.
- Therapist - Work with a therapist and undergo cognitive behavioral therapy to address your specific symptoms, behaviors, attitude and thoughts.
SAD Treatment Options at Work
Talk to your boss about the SAD treatment options you can use at work. You may be able to walk outside during your breaks, move your desk closer to a window or place a lamp near your workstation. Ask if you can change your work hours, too, so you can take advantage of the daylight hours. Consider applying for the Family and Medical Leave Act of 1993 (FMLA) if necessary.
SAD is a serious condition that can affect your performance at work. However, you can treat it. Talk to your physician and boss about which SAD treatment options you can implement as you perform your job.