Does winter affect the mental health of kids?

Does gloomy weather make your child gloomier too, always? It might be Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD), one of the most common problems recorded in relation to human response to weather change. It’s not scary, but if you know a bit more, you might be able to help your child.  

What is SAD? 
SAD is a mood disorder that occurs only during a particular season, and disappears after it. Doctors don’t consider it as an independent disorder, and largely looks at it as depression specific to winter and monsoon. SAD is more common in parts of the country where winter brings in cloudy, foggy weather and longer nights.  

What are the symptoms of SAD?  
Look out for the symptoms that your children may display when affected by seasonal depression: 

Mood swings: Extreme irritability in teens and crying spells in younger children are a common fall-out of dull weather. In case of SAD, these symptoms may persist for days 

Lack of interest: Sudden disinterest in favourite activities such as surfing the web or playing 

Constant lethargy: Tiredness that is not proportionate to the level of activity 

Difficulty in concentrating: You will see it reflected in a drop in grades and a lack of attention  

Disturbed sleep and appetite: Most kids with SAD oversleep and overeat during winter 

Withdrawal from interaction: Reduced interaction in both real and virtual spheres  

If these symptoms are seen for over two weeks, and recurs at the same season for at least 2 consecutive years, it might indicate a child suffering from SAD.    

What can you do to help?  
Once recognised, SAD can be treated and recovery rates are very high.  

• If outdoor activities are not possible, get your child to go out to the balcony, terrace, compound or park. Make sure the house is well ventilated and invites sunshine 
• Place the study desk near a window and try to keep a potted plant nearby. Nature heals 
• Try to give them attractive but healthy food to keep them interested in balanced eating. Winter and monsoon comfort foods such as soup, pasta sautéed vegetables are good for health, and have a ‘feel good’ factor to them 
• Encourage indoor games and mentally stimulating activities