Does My Child Have Seasonal Affective Disorder?
As a parent, you are always trying to look out for your kids and make sure they are healthy on a physical and mental level.
But, some people tend to struggle extra this time of year. The sun is setting earlier, it is getting colder, and people are staying home more.
People can experience symptoms of depression during specific months of the year. When this happens it's called Seasonal Affective Disorder. It often occurs during the fall or winter. These symptoms include:
Irritability
Fatigue
Hopelessness
Change in appetite and sleep
And suicidal ideation
But, it would not be considered Major Depressive Disorder. This is because symptoms come and go at certain times of the year.
In the same way that children can experience depression, they can experience Seasonal Affective Disorder. So, they may also experience symptoms for the duration of a season.
Here is a more comprehensive list of the symptoms of Seasonal Affective Disorder in children. These symptoms can look different in a specific age group.
Feeling hopeless, worthless, or numb
Losing or gaining weight
Appetite changes
Sleeping more or less
Feeling extra sad, anxious, or irritable for no obvious reason
Fatigue
Low energy levels
Not enjoying the things they usually love, like sports, shows, etc
Social isolation
Lashing out
Being very self-critical
Self-harm
Suicidal ideation
Understanding Your Child’s Behavior
All children get moody at times. Having a bad day or a hard time is not an indicator of Seasonal Affective Disorder. So, how can you determine the difference between having a bad day vs a psychological disorder?
Parents should compare the “new” behavior against their child’s “normal.” Whatever that means for them. These symptoms would need to exist for at least 2 weeks, and not have an obvious stressor or cause to be Seasonal Affective Disorder. In short, parents should notice a true pattern of these symptoms that seem to come out of nowhere. Then, they should determine the next steps.
So, what are the next steps?
If your child exhibits these symptoms during certain months, and you have ruled out the possibility of a stressor or cause, it could very well be that they will be diagnosed with Seasonal Affective Disorder. It would be important to consider speaking with their doctor. Plus, scheduling an appointment with a child therapist.
In most cases, Seasonal Affective Disorder can be treated with therapy alone. A good-fit child therapist who uses play therapy, CBT, and child-centered therapy would be ideal in this situation. If you don't have time in your schedule to make in-person sessions, online therapy may be the answer! A child therapist in Philadelphia, PA can offer online therapy for kids in Pennsylvania and more!
Begin Working with a Child Therapist in Philadelphia, PA
You and your child deserve support in dealing with your depressive symptoms. Our team of therapists would be happy to equip you with the tools to do so. We offer support from our Philadelphia, PA-based counseling practice. To start your therapy journey, please follow these simple steps:
Meet with a caring therapist
Start overcoming your seasonal depressive symptoms
Other Services Offered with Amel Therapy
Child therapy isn't the only service we offer at our Philadelphia, PA-based practice. We also offer play therapy, counseling for teens, and grief therapy. Other mental health services offered include parent coaching, therapy for kids and teens of color, and parent support. Feel free to also learn more about our group offerings. This includes the worry warriors, culturally confident teen group, and teen girls group. Visit our blog or media pages for more helpful information!.
