Addressing Seasonal Affective Disorder in Kids

When the days are shorter and sunlight becomes scarce, some children may experience symptoms like fatigue, irritability, difficulty concentrating and a general sense of sadness also known as seasonal affective disorder (SAD). SAD is often associated with adults, but it can significantly impact children as well, affecting their mood, behavior and overall well-being.

Understanding the unique ways SAD manifests in children is essential for parents, educators and health care providers to provide effective support and strategies for coping. Dr. Colby Butzon, a psychologist with Le Bonheur Children's Hospital, shares the signs of SAD in kids, its underlying causes and practical approaches to help them thrive even during the darker months.

Understanding the Underlying Foundation of SAD

Seasonal affective disorder is considered a depressive disorder or a mood disorder. But, unlike other depressive disorders, it tends to only happen during certain times of the year.

“All animals have seasonal differences in their activity levels and their behavior patterns. We as humans tend to do more indoor activities, take things slower during this time of year. That is absolutely a factor that can impact our mood,” states Dr. Butzon.

SAD Signs and Symptoms

SAD among kids and adolescents can manifest differently than in adults, often presenting as increased crankiness, negativity, grumpiness or acting out rather than traditional sadness. Other signs include losing interest in activities they once enjoyed, changes in sleep patterns like excessive sleeping, difficulty waking up or trouble falling asleep due to shifts in body rhythms.

Behavioral and academic changes may also occur, such as declining grades, trouble focusing or getting into trouble more often. Eating habits may shift too, with some eating more—particularly sweets and simple carbohydrates—while others lose interest in food altogether. Recognizing these varied symptoms is key to providing timely support.

“One of the most concerning symptoms we really want to be sure we pay attention to is that sometimes kids have thoughts about self-harm or suicide, and we definitely want to be aware of that and respond immediately,” cautions Dr. Butzon. “If your children are expressing any thoughts of harming themselves, please reach out to the National Suicide Lifeline. You can call or text 988 anytime, day or night. Please share that information with your children as well, so they don't necessarily have to come to you too, but they know there is help out there.”

Effective Strategies for Managing SAD

Families can help manage SAD in children by increasing their exposure to natural light, especially in the morning. If outdoor exposure isn’t feasible, light therapy using special light boxes at home can be an effective alternative.

For cases where symptoms significantly impact daily functioning, treatments like talk therapy, cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) or play therapy for younger children can provide support. Additionally, medications used for other depressive disorders may also help alleviate SAD symptoms. These strategies, tailored to individual needs, can improve mood and overall well-being.

“I encourage families to live in the season as much as they can,” shares Dr. Butzon. “Sure, we can't go outside or go to the playground the way we normally love to do when the weather is nice. What can we do indoors is to make that time special, so we're not just sitting around looking at each other wondering what we're going to do.”

She also suggests doing outdoor activities, even in cold or rainy weather, which can help prevent feelings of cabin fever during darker seasons. For indoor alternatives, families can engage in enjoyable activities like reading, puzzles or board games, which can help maintain connection and lift spirits. While adolescents may initially resist, novel activities can sometimes spark their interest.

If these efforts don’t improve a child’s mood or behavior, it’s important to consult a pediatrician or mental health professional to explore additional treatments such as talk therapy, light therapy or medications to address persistent seasonal blues.