Meghan Knierim, Assoc. Editor of the Alexander Hamilton Institute, Inc., Employment Law Resource Center, interviewed me for a thoughtful, fast-moving and timely piece on Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD).

Click here: AHI's Employment Law Resource Center - HR Soapbox

Now that the craziness of the holiday season is over, you may feel more relaxed and at ease. I know I was, until I received my first credit card bill. Suddenly I felt a whole new kind of stress. Add this to the bleakness of winter days and the freezing temperatures during winter nights, and you've got yourself a case of the winter blues. But there is a disorder that goes beyond the typical seasonal blahs affecting many people this time of year — and some of them could be your employees.

Defining SAD Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) takes the winter blues to the extreme and is classified as a type of major depression. The lack of sunlight caused by winter's short days and long nights can cause individuals who have SAD to experience lethargy, fatigue, headaches, problems sleeping, crying spells, and cravings for sweets and starches. SAD affects one in 20 American adults and usually begins in adolescence or young adulthood. Approximately 75% of those affected by SAD are women. Although some people outgrow the disorder, it could last a lifetime.

SAD Symptoms The signs of SAD are usually experienced only in the winter. If an individual has been through two annual cycles with the following symptoms during the winter, he/she may be suffering from SAD.

* Depression; * Loss of energy; * Anxiety; * Irritability; * Headaches; * Increased sleep;* Loss of interest in sex; * Overeating, especially high-carbohydrate foods;

* Weight gain; and* Difficulty concentrating.

Have you or someone you know ever experienced SAD? What about the mid-winter blahs? What are some of the steps you or they took to help brighten those cold winter days? Click here to share your stories and suggestions.

Combating SAD I recently spoke with the Stress Doc ™, Mark Gorkin, and he gave some helpful hints for employers who are faced with employees experiencing SAD.

* Because light sensitivity plays a role in SAD, provide a well-lit work environment with plenty of windows.

* Allow employees to get out. Whether it's going out for lunch, exercise, or for a walk, encourage them to take a brief trip outdoors during the workday.

* Discourage excessive caffeine use. Although some employees look to coffee, tea, and soda to boost their energy, getting too much caffeine can do just the opposite.

* Stay away from painting the office in dim colors if possible. Use bright colors to brighten employee moods.

* Allow for creativity. Let your employees express themselves by decorating their offices. This doesn't mean anything goes, however. Be sure to lay ground rules for what s and is not appropriate.