Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) can impact children as well as adults, causing changes in mood, energy levels, and overall well-being when the seasons shift, most often in autumn and winter. Recognising and addressing these signs early can make a significant difference.
Identifying the Symptoms of SAD in Children
SAD can appear in subtle ways but has some defining characteristics. The most common signs include:
• Persistent sadness, irritability, or moodiness
• Loss of interest in hobbies or activities they usually enjoy
• Fatigue, even after a good night’s sleep
• Difficulty concentrating and making decisions
• Feelings of hopelessness or low self-esteem
• Changes in eating patterns, leading to noticeable weight gain or loss
• Social withdrawal, trouble interacting with friends
• Poor academic performance.
Parents and nannies who notice these behaviours for more than two consecutive weeks during the same season each year should consult their family GP. Of course many of these symptoms are common in childhood, and can be the result of many causes, so please don’t diagnose your child yourself!
Treatment Options for SAD
Common approaches include:
Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT)
CBT helps reshape negative thoughts into positive ones and – in children – engages them in activities that improve their mood. This form of therapy, known as “behavioural activation,” encourages children to stay active and get involved in enjoyable activities.
Medication
In certain cases, doctors may recommend selective serotonin re-uptake inhibitors (SSRIs), a type of antidepressant that can help alleviate SAD symptoms. While SSRIs have side effects, they are generally safe for children under a doctor’s guidance.
Light Therapy
For more severe symptoms, light therapy—where a child sits in front of a specialised lamp that mimics natural sunlight—can be beneficial. Just 30-45 minutes a day can make a noticeable difference in mood and energy.
Increased Outdoor Activity
Natural sunlight is a great mood booster. Playing outside can help keep SAD symptoms at bay. Simple exposure to natural light during the day can be remarkably effective in lifting spirits.
How Parents and Nannies Can Support Children with SAD
There are many ways to provide emotional and practical support for children experiencing SAD.
• Encourage outdoor play: Aim to get them outside each day, even if just for a short time. Even just walking home from school with their nanny may be enough to positively impact SAD.
• Establish a consistent routine: A regular sleep schedule can help children feel more energised, and exposure to natural light early in the day can boost mood.
• Provide balanced nutrition: Meals with whole grains, fruits, and vegetables give children the nutrients they need for stable energy. Reducing sugary snacks and processed foods may also help minimise mood swings. Doing this as a family can stop a child feeling stigmatised by their SAD and is bound to benefit everybody’s wellbeing.
• Be patient and listen: Recovery from SAD can take time. Quality time one-to-one with both parents and nanny give a child the chance to process emotions and share experience of SAD.
• Offer low-energy bonding activities: Watch a film or read together. Activities that don’t require much energy can still provide emotional closeness.
• Reassure them that SAD is temporary: remind them that their symptoms will improve as the seasons change. While they may face this challenge again in the future, there are effective treatments. Emphasising this cyclical nature can provide comfort and reassurance.
Final Thoughts
Parents and nannies play a crucial role in supporting children with SAD. By spotting the signs early, seeking appropriate treatment, and creating a supportive environment, you can help children develop resilience and coping mechanisms that not only lift their mood but also foster long-term emotional health.
Photo creds: Pixaby @ Pexels