Seasonal Affective Disorder in Children -Ways to Help SAD Kids
Seasonal Affective Disorder, or SAD, is a common disorder in both older children and adults. It is not simply “winter blues” that is experienced by many as the days become darker and colder, but an actual mental health diagnosis. It is a form of depression that follows a predictable seasonal pattern and should be taken seriously by parents and Pediatricians alike.
The acronym “SAD” is very appropriate for this disorder, in which sadness and depressive symptoms occur during the winter months. This starts to show definite symptoms when the days become shorter and daylight hours are less. The often gloomy, cloudy skies associated with winter months may worsen this affect as well. This type of depression is more common in northern climates, where the daylight hours are even more affected by the winter.
Cause of SAD
While there is no definite determination of what causes SAD, there is evidence that points to disruption of the circadian rhythm. It is thought that the decreased daylight triggers the brain’s response to produce this type of depression. This is possibly due to an imbalance between melatonin (increased) and serotonin (decreased), two chemicals important to sleep-wake cycles and mood. This imbalance can create the environment for depression. It is unclear why some people are affected while others are not, despite living in the same environment.
Symptoms of SAD
In older children affected by SAD, their mood will start to change as the winter months set in fully. They may experience sadness, isolation, loneliness, worthlessness, and confusion as to why they feel this way. There are often associated sleep changes and unusual tiredness or fatigue during the day, causing difficulty with concentration and making it very difficult for children during school hours.
As with any form of depression, these symptoms can range from mild to severe, and its affects on the family dynamic can be significant.
Treatment of SAD
There are several treatments effective for SAD, including:
- Sunlight. Exposure to sunlight raises Vitamin D levels, helps to reestablish the circadian rhythm.
- Spend time outdoors. Be sure your older child is dressed appropriately for the weather where you live, but fresh air and exposure to the outdoors can help significantly with symptoms of SAD.
- Encourage exercise. Moving the body increases endorphins and there is research to show that it increases serotonin levels as well.
- Eat healthy. Improving diet helps with mental fogginess and energy levels.
- Travel. If possible, travel to a sunny climate can improve symptoms of SAD.
- Medication. For severe cases, your Pediatrician or mental health provider may recommend anti-depressant medications.
Many of these interventions are common to treatment of all forms of depression. However, like any treatment, if your child is worsening he or she should be evaluated further by the Pediatrician or mental health provider.
Final thoughts
While less known than Major Depressive Disorder, Seasonal Affective Disorder is still a type of depression that affects older children and teens in a significant way. This type of depression may go undiagnosed, especially if present as a milder version. However, it is still very disruptive to daily life in these kids. School performance, participation in activities they typically enjoy, and family interactions can all be affected if SAD is not identified and treated effectively.
If you are concerned your child may be suffering from SAD, please make an appointment to discuss this with your Pediatrician who can help.
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