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One in ten people see no natural light at work, while 30 per cent get up before sunrise and return home after sunset during the winter months, a survey has found.

Going without daily sunlight can lead to feelings of lethargy and depression, which can develop further into SAD, Mental Health Research UK (MHRUK) said.

Dr Laura Davidson, mental health barrister and trustee of MHRUK, said: "It is estimated that one million working hours are lost each year due to SAD.

"The common unhealthy work culture where lunch breaks are frowned upon is a likely contributor to the increasing numbers of SAD sufferers.

"Employers and educational establishments need to take on board just how important natural light is to good mental health.

"They have a responsibility to ensure that work and study environments have sufficient windows to flood the building with as much natural light as possible.

"Darker areas must be well-lit to address the negative effects of light deprivation."