03/10/2026
With all the gray weather, it’s normal for some children and teens to feel a little more tired or less motivated. But according to HealthyChildren.org, Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) is a form of depression that follows a seasonal pattern.
Signs may include withdrawing from activities they once enjoyed, craving comfort foods, increased sleepiness, irritability, anxiety, or trouble sleeping. Because SAD can look like other mood disorders, it’s important to pay attention to patterns over time.
HealthyChildren.org shares helpful strategies that may improve symptoms, including increasing natural light exposure, spending time outdoors, regular exercise, balanced nutrition, and maintaining healthy sleep routines. If symptoms are persistent or concerning, a medical evaluation is important.
👉 We encourage parents to read the full article on HealthyChildren.org for more detailed information about winter blues and Seasonal Affective Disorder.
For some children, a change in season brings with it a shift in mood. But the