As winter arrives, some people gaze out their windows and marvel at the picturesque winter wonderland, while others notice a shift in their mood and energy levels. For many, this seasonal change can trigger a form of depression known as Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD). SAD can impair decision-making and increase the likelihood of accidents.
What is Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD)?
Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) is a form of depression that occurs at specific times of the year, typically occurring in winter months when daylight hours are shorter and temperatures lower. According to the National Institute of Mental Health (NIH), symptoms of SAD could include:
- Persistent low mood and feelings of hopelessness
- Loss of interest in activities
- Fatigue and low energy
- Difficulty concentrating
- Changes in sleep patterns, oversleeping
- Weight gain or loss
These symptoms impact employees' mental health and can significantly impact an employee's ability to perform their job effectively.
How SAD Affects Workers’ Compensation Claims
Data indicates that weather conditions are associated with higher workers’ compensation claim frequency. Specifically, cold weather can lead to an increase in claims due to several factors such as:
- Higher Risk of Accidents: Fatigue and difficulty concentrating can increase the risk of workplace accidents.
- Slips, Trips, and Falls: Icy and wet conditions are prime contributors to slip-and-fall accidents. These incidents often result in injuries such as fractures, sprains, and strains, which can lead to significant workers’ compensation claims. According to the Travelers Injury Impact Report, slips, trips, and falls are among the most common causes of injuries and according to Enlyte’s podcast, slips on ice have quadrupled from November to December 2024 and doubled from December 2024 to January 2025.
- Motor Vehicle Accidents: Snow and ice on the roads increase the likelihood of motor vehicle accidents.
- Frostbite and Hypothermia: Workers exposed to extreme cold, especially those in outdoor or unheated environments, are at risk of frostbite and hypothermia which can lead to long-term disability claims.
Types of Injuries
The types of injuries reported during cold weather months often differ from those seen in warmer periods. Common cold weather-related injuries include:
- Musculoskeletal Injuries: Slips, trips, and falls frequently result in musculoskeletal injuries, such as broken bones, dislocations, and ligament tears.
- Cold Stress Injuries: Prolonged exposure to cold temperatures can cause cold stress injuries, including frostbite and hypothermia. These injuries require immediate medical attention and can lead to long-term health problems.
- Respiratory Issues: Cold air can exacerbate respiratory conditions, leading to increased claims for illnesses such as bronchitis and pneumonia.
Trends and Data Analysis
Recent trends show a correlation between cold weather and an uptick in workers’ compensation claims. For example, the study by the NCCI found that there is up to a 10% increase in workers’ compensation claim frequency during extremely cold weather compared to mild temperatures. Additionally, the impact of SAD on disability claims underscores the importance of comprehensive medical assessments and proactive strategies to address this condition
- Claim Frequency: There is up to a 10% increase in workers’ compensation claim frequency during extremely cold weather compared to mild temperatures.
- Seasonal Variations: The frequency of claims peaks around freezing temperatures, with the highest rates observed on cold and wet days.
- Remote or Hybrid Working: Since the COVID-19 pandemic, remote or hybrid working has drastically increased in American societies. This shift has led to a decrease in injury frequency on very cold days, likely due to more employees working from home.
As winter settles in, bundle up and enjoy the snowy wonderland outside, but also be mindful of employees who might be struggling with Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD). It’s important for both employers and employees to understand the symptoms of SAD and its impact on workplace safety.