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1. FEATURE STORY:
HELPING EMPLOYEES BATTLE THE WINTER BLUES

There's a point during the winter, especially during February, when spring just feels like it's so far away (regardless of the groundhog's prediction) to some employees. Because the end of winter doesn't appear to be in sight, employees may lose sight of their work. They would rather be at home on the couch, napping. In fact, it may seem like they're napping at work. Their productivity slumps and they keep to themselves, not wanting to associate with co-workers because of their mood. Your employees may have the winter blues.

The so-called "winter blues" is a mild form of depression clinically known as Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD). Researchers estimate that approximately 15 million Americans have a bout with the winter blues each year. For some, the symptoms are mild and manageable. For others, SAD is severe enough to require therapy and medication. Employees with a mild form of SAD may experience symptoms such as irritability, sleepiness, and an increased desire to eat. Those with a more severe form of SAD may withdraw from social and work connections, making them more likely to be absent during the winter months.

Since employees spend the better part of their day at work, their employers are most likely bearing the brunt of SAD symptoms. Here are a few ways you can help employees battle the blues during these last few weeks of winter.

• Remind employees to stay positive. Tell them that even though right now winter seems endless, it will end and spring will arrive. Post a "countdown to spring" calendar in a common area. Remind employees of events that they have to look forward to in the near future, such as a vacation or opening day of the baseball season. Allow them to bring in flowers and hang colorful photos to brighten their work area.

• Suggest that they stick to a schedule, and have managers help employees structure their day if necessary. Some structure to their day may help them de-stress and worry less about approaching deadlines.

• Remind employees that their breaks are not only for eating. They should use their breaks to get some exercise, as well. Exercise is one of the best ways to treat the blues. Spend some time taking a walk outside in the sun (unless it's too cold) or getting up and stretching at repeated intervals throughout the day.

• Help employees rearrange their workspaces so they get more sunlight. (Light therapy is a common clinical treatment for SAD that involves exposure to a fluorescent lamp for 30 to 90 minutes a day.)

• Refer employees to the company's employee assistance program (EAP). Employees should not bottle up their feelings because doing so can contribute to prolonging SAD. If your company does not have an EAP, then provide information on where they may obtain counseling, such as a local mental health care center.

EMPLOYEE MANTRA: UNDERPAID AND OVERWORKED

No matter how much employees get paid, it's never enough. Learn the best ways to respond to employee's salary complaints...View the full story on our website.

FREE REPORT

Check out the Free Report "HR Guide For Managing Problem Employees Successfully And Legally," which contains useful advice on how best to solve common employee problems, such as the employee who pockets office supplies, workers who constantly bicker, those who make a habit of not turning in their time sheets — and many more!