How SAD Affects Kids

February 08, 2022, How SAD Affects Kids

Shortened winter daylight and dreary weather get many people down during the winter. But seasonal affective disorder (SAD) is more serious than that, and it can affect both adults and older children.

SAD is a Type of Depression
Scientists still don’t know exactly what causes SAD, but they do know it is a real disorder. Although most people experience it in the winter, some people may also have SAD at different times of the year. And if children develop SAD, they may have it every year, which is why diagnosis and treatment are important.

Symptoms of SAD
SAD doesn’t look the same in every kid. But common symptoms to watch out for include:

• changes in eating and/or sleeping habits
• changes in mood, including increased sadness or irritability
• low energy
• negativity
• social withdrawal
• trouble concentrating in school

If you think your child may have SAD, don’t wait until spring for the situation to improve. Light therapy, medication and talk therapy are options to help your child feel better.

Schedule an appointment with your primary care provider or Request an Appointment with one of the HRMC Physicians Clinic Family Medicine providers.