As the temperature drops, the days get shorter, icy weather interrupts our outdoor activities, and COVID-19 lockdowns come and go, it’s not uncommon to feel lethargic and less motivated, which never helps when it comes to job seeking. 

At this time of year, any of these symptoms can often be attributed to a single condition called Season Affective Disorder (SAD). Beyond Blue defines SAD as a “mood disorder with a seasonal pattern“. Although not as common in Australia as in colder climates, it’s a type of depression most often observed in winter due to reduced exposure to light and warmth.  

Experiencing the symptoms of SAD, such as a lack of energy, oversleeping, overeating, weight gain and craving for carbohydrates, can have a real impact on your capacity to focus on looking for work.  

So, if some, or all, of these symptoms, sound familiar to you then there is something you can do about it, starting with these five tips to get you back into the swing of things: 

1. Take in natural light

A drop-off in sunlight exposure is said to be the leading cause of SAD, so taking every opportunity to be outdoors during the daytime could help combat your symptoms. That includes going for a walk and, if possible, eating outside, or if the weather isn’t on your side, try keeping your curtains and blinds fully open.  

2. Keep a schedule

It might seem odd to schedule your whole day, but it can help your productivity and keep you accountable to yourself. Putting time in the diary to do certain activities and ensuring you’re allowing yourself a full eight hours of sleep, is important for sustaining your energy levels throughout the day.  

3. Eat your fruit and veg

While sugar gives us a quick rush, what comes up, must come down. We don’t recommend cutting out any food groups, but instead, introducing as much fruit and veg as you can. A healthy and fuelled body helps keep a healthy mind, so get in your greens, fruit, healthy fats, and lean proteins. 

4. Get active

We hear it all the time, but exercise is a great tool as it boosts our serotonin and endorphins – which are your happy brain chemicals. You don’t have to complete a HITT workout or run for hours, a walk everyday is a great start.

5. Don’t go it alone

One way of beating SAD and getting back into a successful job hunting groove, is ensuring you reach out to those around you. If you’re struggling, speak to loved one or make a conscious effort to keep up with interacting with friends and family. However, self-help can only do so much, so if these tips aren’t cutting it, speak to your doctor and seek the support of a mental health professional.  

And of course, Jobedge Job Coaches are experts when it comes to reaching your job goals, no matter what you think might be standing in your way. ‘ 

So for advice and support that will help get you over your winter blues and put an early spring in your step, get in touch with us today.

This article also features for the Fresh Jobs Campaign – an initiative by Fresh92.7 which Jobedge is proud to be a Diamond Sponsor.

To check out this campaign and for further career and job seeking advice, visit:
www.freshjobs.com.au

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