by Brooke Carbo

Does your pet have what it takes to compete with these labs participating in the 2019 Homecoming Parade? Submit your photos by November 14, 2024. Photo by ANDREA MABRY | Marketing and Communication UABThe end of daylight saving time and the extra hour of sleep it brings in the morning is great, but for some people, the shorter days and colder weather can take a toll on their mood and mental health. This month, UAB Employee Wellness highlights the impact pets have on our mental health, including those who experience seasonal mood swings.

Employee health manager Emily Davidson describes seasonal affective disorder (SAD) as a form of depression typically seen in the fall and winter months when daylight hours decrease.

“It’s thought to be related to changes in light exposure, which can affect the body’s internal clock and lead to mood swings,” Davidson said. “Pets can be a beacon of light, providing much-needed companionship and emotional support that can relieve SAD symptoms.”

These symptoms often include persistent sadness, fatigue, changes in sleep and appetite, and difficulty concentrating. According to Davidson, “the simple act of petting a dog or cat releases oxytocin, the ‘feel good’ hormone, helping to reduce stress and boost mood.”

To highlight this special bond between humans and animals, Employee Wellness is bringing back UAB’s Cutest Pet Contest. UAB employees are invited to submit pet photos now through November 14.

Ten finalists will be announced on Monday, November 18 online and on UAB HR’s Facebook and LinkedIn pages. From November 18-22, the UAB community will vote to decide which finalist deserves the title of UAB’s Cutest Pet.

Visit uab.edu/petpics to submit a pet photo by 5:00 p.m. Nov. 14. Voting for UAB’s Cutest Pet will open at midnight on November 18th and close at 10:59pm on November 22nd.