Shorter Days, Greater Risks: Managing Fatigue and Mental Health in the Workplace

As daylight hours decrease and routines shift, employees face higher risks of fatigue, mood changes, and reduced alertness. Employers who proactively address seasonal challenges can improve safety, morale, and productivity throughout the fall and winter months.

• By Jeremy R. Abbott
• Sep 16, 2025

As summer fades and daylight hours shorten, many workplaces notice a shift in energy and mood among employees. The transition to fall and winter can bring cooler temperatures, earlier sunsets, and changes in daily routines. While these seasonal changes may seem minor, they can have a significant impact on both mental health and physical safety.

Employees may experience fatigue from reduced daylight, changes in sleep patterns, or increased commuting in darkness. Others may struggle with mood changes or even symptoms of Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD). For employers, understanding and addressing these seasonal challenges is an important part of keeping teams safe, healthy, and productive.

The Link Between Seasonal Changes, Mental Health, and Fatigue

Human biology is deeply connected to natural light. Reduced daylight can disrupt circadian rhythms, the body’s internal clock that regulates sleep and wake cycles. This disruption can lead to difficulty falling asleep, poor sleep quality, and increased fatigue during waking hours.

Seasonal changes can also affect mood. Some employees may experience mild “winter blues,” while others may face more significant challenges such as SAD. These mood shifts can impact concentration, decision-making, and overall job performance. Fatigue and reduced alertness increase the risk of workplace accidents, particularly in safety-sensitive environments.

Common Workplace Risks During Seasonal Transitions

When mental health and fatigue issues go unaddressed, several risks may emerge, including:

• Slower Reaction Times: Fatigue reduces alertness, increasing the likelihood of errors or delayed responses in high-risk situations.
• Reduced Situational Awareness: Lower energy and focus can make employees less aware of hazards in their environment.
• Increased Absenteeism: Mental health challenges or poor sleep can lead to more sick days and unplanned absences.
• Higher Incident Rates: Data shows that fatigue is linked to a higher rate of workplace injuries, especially in physically demanding jobs.

Understanding these risks allows employers to implement strategies that protect their workforce during seasonal changes.

Strategies to Support Mental Health and Reduce Fatigue

1. Encourage Open Communication
Employees should feel comfortable discussing mental health and fatigue concerns without fear of stigma or reprisal. Supervisors can normalize these conversations by checking in with their teams and providing information about available resources.
2. Adjust Work Schedules When Possible
If operational needs allow, consider flexible start times to help employees get adequate rest. For shift workers, rotating schedules in a way that minimizes disruption to circadian rhythms can make a significant difference.
3. Promote Healthy Sleep Habits
Educational materials on sleep hygiene can help employees improve rest. Tips include keeping a consistent bedtime, reducing screen time before bed, and creating a quiet, dark sleeping environment.
4. Maximize Natural Light Exposure
Encourage employees to take breaks outside during daylight hours. For indoor spaces, position workstations near windows when possible and consider using full-spectrum lighting to help mimic natural light.
5. Offer Mental Health Resources
Employee Assistance Programs (EAPs), counseling services, and wellness programs should be highlighted, especially during seasonal transitions. Providing access to these resources can help employees address challenges early.
6. Promote Physical Activity
Regular exercise boosts mood, energy levels, and overall health. Offering walking groups during lunch breaks, fitness challenges, or on-site classes can encourage movement.

Leadership’s Role in Seasonal Awareness

Supervisors and managers play a key role in recognizing early signs of fatigue or mental health struggles. This may include changes in appearance, decreased productivity, withdrawal from coworkers, or an increase in minor mistakes. Addressing these concerns early can prevent more serious issues from developing.

Leaders should also lead by example. Modeling healthy habits, such as taking breaks, prioritizing rest, and openly discussing well-being, sends a powerful message that employee health is valued as much as productivity.

Extending Awareness Beyond the Workplace

Just as with other safety practices, seasonal health awareness should extend to employees’ lives outside of work. Reminders about safe winter driving, home lighting for dark evenings, and managing stress during the holiday season all contribute to a well-rounded safety culture.

By providing information that applies both at work and at home, employers reinforce that safety and well-being are continuous priorities, not limited to the workday.

Final Thoughts

Seasonal changes affect everyone differently, but fatigue and mental health challenges are common as daylight decreases. Employers who recognize and address these issues can reduce accidents, improve morale, and maintain productivity during the fall and winter months.

A successful seasonal safety program combines education, open communication, and proactive leadership. When employees feel supported, they are more likely to take steps to manage their own health and look out for their coworkers.

Protecting a workforce means more than preventing physical injuries; it also means safeguarding mental well-being and ensuring employees have the energy, focus, and resilience to perform at their best year-round.