Workplace Wellbeing in Winter

As winter approaches, many UK organisations are gearing up for a season that can bring unique challenges to employee wellbeing. The longer nights and colder temperatures often lead to a dip in mood and energy, while the added pressures of the holiday season can heighten stress, so supporting employee wellbeing during this time is essential.

Why Winter Wellbeing Matters

Winter can be a tough period for some and this can bring challenges to the workplace.

The shift to reduced daylight in winter can have a significant impact on our mood and wellbeing. With fewer hours of natural light, our bodies produce more melatonin, the hormone that makes us feel sleepy, and less serotonin, which boosts mood. This imbalance can leave people feeling sluggish, less motivated, and generally low in energy. It’s not uncommon to feel more fatigued or struggle with concentration during the darker months, especially for those who spend most of their day indoors.

Some colleagues may start to experience symptoms of Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD). This form of depression can affect mood, energy levels, and overall productivity. Colleagues might seem less engaged, more fatigued, or withdrawn, which can also have a ripple effect on team morale.

For many organisations, the festive period marks a time of heightened activity, whether it’s wrapping up end-of-year projects, meeting seasonal demand, or finalising budgets. This increased workload can leave employees feeling stretched thin, as they juggle additional tasks alongside the usual pressures. The stress of looming deadlines, combined with fewer colleagues in the office due to holiday leave, can create a sense of overwhelm and fatigue. In fact, according to research by YouGov, over two in five have felt stressed during the festive season. It’s no surprise that this period often sees a rise in burnout, disengagement, and absenteeism. It’s a time where burnout becomes a real risk, especially if there isn’t enough support or resources available.

Ignoring these challenges can have significant consequences. When employees feel overwhelmed or undervalued, their productivity and morale decline, affecting the entire organisation. The cost of burnout is high, leading to lower engagement, increased sick leave, and, potentially, higher turnover. Addressing these issues head-on by understanding your employees’ needs can help you provide targeted support and create a positive work environment during this challenging period.

How to Support Colleagues

To help combat the winter slump, People Management recommends some simple changes that can make a big difference:

Flexible working: Allowing employees to adjust their start and finish times means they can make the most of the limited daylight, whether it’s taking a morning walk or finishing work in time to catch the last bit of sun. The option to work from home can also provide a boost, giving people the freedom to create a more comfortable, personalised work environment. By accommodating different needs and preferences, flexible working helps people manage their well-being, stay motivated, and maintain a better work-life balance, even on the dreariest of winter days.

Collaborative working: Bringing people together, whether for brainstorming sessions, project planning, or problem-solving discussions, you create opportunities for connection and idea sharing that can lift everyone’s mood. Working in a team can also provide a sense of camaraderie and support, helping to offset feelings of isolation that might be more common during the festive season. It’s also a chance for people to learn from each other and feel more engaged in their work, as collaboration often sparks fresh ideas and injects a bit of enthusiasm, making the day feel more dynamic and fulfilling.

Reward and recognition: While many of their colleagues may be enjoying time off, it’s important to acknowledge the commitment and effort of the team members who remain, often taking on additional tasks or covering for others. A well-considered gesture of appreciation, whether it’s a small gift, a thank-you message, or a special treat in the office, can make a big difference. It reinforces their value, keeps spirits up, and fosters a sense of belonging and camaraderie at a time when they might otherwise feel overlooked.

Supporting employee workplace wellbeing in winter is not just a nice-to-have, but a crucial investment in your organisation’s success. By implementing simple strategies such as flexible working, creating collaborative environments, and ensuring timely reward and recognition, organisations can reduce the challenges posed by reduced daylight, the festive season, and increased stress levels. Addressing these issues proactively not only helps maintain morale and productivity, but also contributes to a healthier, more engaged workforce. This thoughtful approach can reduce the risks of burnout, absenteeism, and employee turnover, ultimately strengthening your organisation’s resilience during a challenging time of year.