Seasonal affective disorder (SAD) is a type of depression that occurs at a specific time of year, most commonly during the fall and winter months. In children and adolescents, SAD can lead to noticeable changes in mood, energy levels, sleep patterns, and academic performance as daylight hours decrease. The condition is linked to the brain’s response to reduced sunlight, which can disrupt circadian rhythms and affect serotonin levels. As spring approaches and daylight increases, symptoms often improve, but early recognition and support are key to helping young people manage SAD effectively.
In youth, SAD can manifest differently than in adults, often showing up as irritability, withdrawal from friends and family, difficulty concentrating, and a drop in school performance. Younger children may become more clingy or tearful, while teens might experience increased fatigue, changes in appetite, and a loss of interest in activities they once enjoyed. Because children and adolescents are still developing emotionally and socially, SAD can interfere with their growth and well-being if left unaddressed. Early intervention, including light therapy, counseling, and supportive routines, can help reduce the impact and improve their ability to cope during the darker months.
Nemours Children’s Hospital details the signs along with therapeutic ways to relieve symptoms. For more information, visit them online at: Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) (for Teens) | Nemours KidsHealth