Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) reasonable adjustments

Seasonal affective disorder (SAD) is a form of depression that some people experience at particular times of the year or during a particular season (usually winter).

Workers who experience SAD may have symptoms of depression that have a significantly adverse impact on their day-to-day activities.

The illness varies greatly in its duration, but is likely to occur in cycles, with apparent recovery and then a relapse..

Which tasks are you likely to struggle with at work?

SAD is likely to affect many aspects of your teaching practice because of the overriding effects of persistent fatigue and lack of motivation.

Some of the common symptoms of SAD are:

  • Lack of energy;
  • Concentration problems;
  • Insomnia;
  • Depression;
  • Apathy;
  • Anxiety;
  • Panic attacks;
  • Mood swings;
  • Susceptibility to colds and flu;
  • Irritability.

What kind of adjustments may be considered?

  • Light therapy;
  • Temporarily reduced or changed working hours;
  • Time-off work for counselling and treatment;
  • Increased rest breaks;
  • Memory aids e.g. written job instructions.

Further information:

Reasonable adjustments

Reasonable adjustments are primarily concerned with enabling disabled workers to remain in or return to work.

Disability toolkit graphic

Disability equality toolkit

Useful tools for reps to help them support disabled members.

Find out more
Back to top