Seasonal affective disorder (SAD) is a type of depression that comes and goes in a seasonal pattern. SAD is sometimes known as “winter depression” because the symptoms are usually more apparent and more severe during the winter.
The specific cause of seasonal affective disorder remains unknown. Some factors that may come into play include: Your biological clock (circadian rhythm). The reduced level of sunlight in fall and winter may cause winter-onset seasonal affective disorder (SAD).
If you’ve been diagnosed with seasonal affective disorder, your treatment plan may include a combination of light therapy, vitamin D supplement, cognitive behaviour therapy and possibly medication. Self-care is key with SAD because it tends to take on a predictable pattern.
if you would like a risk assessment created for someone, please contact us.
Although women cope differently with menopause, severe menopause symptoms can greatly affect their wellbeing.
The average age of natural menopause is 51 years but can occur much earlier or later. Menopause occurring before the age of 45 is called early menopause and before the age of 40 is premature menopause. Late menopause may also occur but by the age of 54, 80% of women will have stopped having periods.
Generally, women having early or premature menopause are advised to take HRT until approximately the average age of the menopause, for both symptom control and bone protective effect.
Some women are not prepared for the onset of menopause and its symptoms. It would be great to provide further information to employers and employees. Get in touch if you need support.
You might find it helpful to…
If you would like to find out more click on the links below:
Menopause in the workplace
The Women and Equalities committee set up an inquiry into menopause in the workplace and the extent to which women with menopausal symptoms suffer discrimination in the workplace. The recommendations are expected in 2022 and this could lead to changes to the Equality Act 2022.
It may be beneficial, if you haven’t already done so, to subscribe to the HSE news and updates link – HSE: Latest news on health and safety at work
Contact us for further information.
October marks a critical shift in the year. With darker evenings, cooler temperatures, and seasonal moisture, risks increase—but there’s also a strong opportunity to reinforce company culture and sustainability initiatives.
Key Focus Areas and Relevant UK Campaigns:
– Slips, Trips & Falls: Wet leaves and rain heighten outdoor hazard risks. Prioritise cleaning schedules, consider gritting walkways when needed, and reinforce appropriate footwear policies.
– Lighting Assessments: With days getting shorter, audits of external and emergency lighting help prevent accidents and bolster productivity.
– Equipment & Vehicle Checks: Drier and colder conditions can stress machinery and vehicles—proactive servicing reduces downtime and improves safety.
2. Mental Health Awareness
– World Mental Health Day – 10 October: This international observance offers a timely prompt to emphasise that mental wellbeing is integral to workplace safety. Encourage open dialogue, provide stress-related training for managers, and remind staff of available support services.
3. Environmental Responsibility
– Recycle Week 2025 – 14–20 October: Organised by WRAP, the theme “Rescue Me! Recycle” encourages better recycling habits across the UK (https://www.wearedisrupt.co.uk/event/recycle-week-2025). This makes it a perfect opportunity to launch or reinvigorate internal recycling campaigns, educate your team on proper segregation, and share WRAP toolkits and resources.
Why This Matters
October sets the stage for effective year-end HSE performance. Tying seasonal risks to mental health awareness and environmental action creates a compelling, multi-faceted blog that positions you as both proactive and socially responsible.
Contact us to discuss your health and safety requirements.
Next week (9–15 June) is Men’s Health Week, and it’s a great opportunity for us to take a moment to reflect on how we look after ourselves and each other—physically and mentally.
Men’s health is often overlooked or quietly pushed aside, but it’s something we all need to take seriously. This year’s theme encourages small steps toward better health—whether that’s getting more active, checking in on stress, or just having open conversations.
Companies should consider sharing a few useful tips and resources around their departments:
It’s not about big changes—just small actions that make a real difference.
Let’s keep the conversation going. If anyone has ideas or wants to share resources or activities during the week, feel free to get involved!
Contact us for further information.
May marks Mental Health Awareness Month, a time to bring mental well-being to the forefront of workplace health and safety conversations. While physical safety has long been a cornerstone of health and safety strategies, psychological safety is now rightly gaining equal attention. Employers have a legal and moral duty to address mental health as part of a safe working environment.
Why Mental Health Matters at Work
Mental health issues such as stress, anxiety, and depression are among the leading causes of absence from work in the UK. According to the Health and Safety Executive (HSE), over 17 million working days were lost in 2023 due to work-related stress, depression, or anxiety.
Unchecked, poor mental health can also increase the likelihood of workplace accidents due to decreased concentration, fatigue, and poor decision-making.
Legal Responsibilities
Under the Health and Safety at Work etc. Act 1974, employers have a duty to ensure, so far as is reasonably practicable, the health, safety, and welfare of their employees – and this includes mental health.
The Management of Health and Safety at Work Regulations 1999 further require employers to assess and manage risks to employees’ health, which includes psychosocial risks such as workload pressure, harassment, or lack of support.
Practical Steps Employers Can Take
Spotlight on Action: Telford Businesses Leading the Way
Several businesses in Telford are already integrating mental health into their safety cultures. Companies have prioritised employee well-being, offering flexible working, mindfulness sessions, and in-house mental health champions.
Conclusion
Mental health is just as vital as physical health when it comes to building a safe, productive, and resilient workforce. This May, use Mental Health Awareness Month as a springboard to embed sustainable mental health practices in your workplace.
A healthy mind supports a safer workplace—and that’s a win for everyone.
Contact us if you would like further information.
