Seasonal Depression Affects Workplace Well-Being
Washington L&I highlights ways to address seasonal depression and support employee well-being in winter.
- By Stasia DeMarco
- Nov 03, 2026
As daylight hours shorten and colder weather arrives, the Washington State Department of Labor & Industries (L&I) encourages workers to recognize how seasonal affective disorder (SAD) affects mental health and workplace performance.
In a Nov. 3 safety bulletin, the agency highlighted how seasonal depression, linked to changes in daylight and seasonal patterns, can affect employees during the fall and winter months.
According to L&I, seasonal affective disorder can interfere with job performance, productivity, employee engagement and communication among coworkers. The condition can also affect physical functioning and the ability to manage daily activities.
To help workers manage seasonal symptoms, the department recommends maintaining consistent sleep schedules, spending time outdoors during daylight hours and staying socially connected. Other suggestions include eating a balanced diet, limiting processed foods and seeking professional support when symptoms become difficult to manage.
The agency also identifies light therapy lamps as a possible option for increasing light exposure during months when natural sunlight is limited.
L&I referenced guidance from the Mayo Clinic emphasizing that recurring seasonal depression should not be dismissed as ordinary winter blues.
For employers and safety professionals, the guidance highlights the importance of recognizing seasonal mental health challenges that may affect employee well-being, communication and workplace participation.
The department encourages individuals experiencing persistent symptoms or difficulty managing daily responsibilities to consult a healthcare provider.
About the Author
Stasia DeMarco is the content editor of Occupational Health & Safety.