The Chill Factor: How Cold Weather Affects Mental Health and Workplace Wellbeing

As the days grow shorter and the temperature drops, many people feel their energy and motivation dip too. It’s not just in your head — cold weather can have a significant impact on our mental health, and that ripple effect can be felt across workplaces everywhere.

The Connection Between Cold Weather and Mental Health

When the cold sets in, our natural routines shift. Reduced sunlight means our bodies produce less serotonin — the hormone that stabilises mood — and more melatonin, which can leave us feeling sluggish, low, or even anxious. Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD), sometimes referred to as “winter depression,” is estimated by the NHS to affect around 2 million people in the UK each year, but many more experience milder seasonal mood changes.

Beyond mood, cold weather can limit physical activity and social interaction. We spend more time indoors, often under artificial light, which can heighten feelings of isolation. For those already managing stress, anxiety, or depression, winter can make things feel heavier still.

The Workplace Impact

These seasonal shifts don’t stay at home — they come to work. Employees may struggle with focus, fatigue, and lower motivation, contributing to both absenteeism (time off due to illness) and presenteeism (being at work but not fully functioning). For organisations, this can mean dips in productivity, increased mistakes, and lower morale. In customer-facing roles or high-pressure environments, the effects are even more pronounced.

Three Things Leaders Can Do to Support Their Teams

1. Encourage Light and Movement Simple changes can make a big difference. Encourage regular breaks in natural light, provide bright, well-lit workspaces, and support lunchtime walks or “movement breaks.” If possible, consider flexible hours so staff can make the most of daylight.

2. Promote Open Conversations About Mental Health Create a culture where it’s okay to talk about low mood or motivation. Regular wellbeing check-ins, access to Employee Assistance Programmes, and mental health first aiders all help normalise these conversations and provide real support.

3. Offer Warmth — Literally and Figuratively Make physical comfort a priority — ensure workspaces are warm, safe, and inviting. Pair that with emotional warmth: recognition, empathy, and understanding go a long way in cold, dark months.

A Final Thought

Cold weather is inevitable, but its impact on mental health doesn’t have to be. By leading with compassion and foresight, business leaders can help their teams not only endure the winter months — but thrive through them.