Seasonal Depression Tips For Teens

Seasonal affective disorder, or SAD, is a condition that affects around 5% of the population in any given year. The onset of SAD generally occurs during the wintertime, and symptoms can include fatigue, lack of motivation, and changes in appetite and sleep habits.

Teens are no exception and may also experience SAD when the darker, colder days of winter set in and the sunny days at the beach are only a memory. Seasonal depression can mimic normal depression, but SAD tends to occur during the late fall and winter months.

How do you know if your teen is suffering from just a little case of the “winter blahs” or full-blown SAD? Follow along as Liahona Academy explains how to know and how you can help.

What are the symptoms of Seasonal Depression?

Symptoms of SAD can include:

• Decreased energy- Your teen may sleep later and have problems getting up. He may lose interest in activities and sports.
• Weight gain- You may notice a significant weight gain in a short period of time.
• Decreased appetite- Some teens may lose weight or have trouble eating.
• Sleep problems- Your teen may have trouble going to sleep or staying asleep.
• Feelings of sadness and hopelessness- Your teen may express extreme negative emotions.
• Anxiety and irritation- Your child may be anxious and more irritable than usual.
• Trouble concentrating- Homework may not get done, and grades may slip.
• Suicidal thoughts- Your child may express suicidal thoughts, which should be seen as an emergency.

If your teen experiences any of these symptoms, it’s recommended to see a doctor for an assessment.

Winter Blues vs. SAD

A moderate form of SAD known as the "winter blues" might also occur. It's common to feel sad during the winter months. Your teen may feel trapped inside when it gets dark early. However, SAD goes beyond this. It is a type of depression.

In contrast to the winter blues, SAD impacts your daily life, including how you feel and think. Fortunately, treatment can help you get through this challenging period.

How common is seasonal affective disorder (SAD)?

According to the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI), seasonal affective disorder (SAD) is a type of depression that typically occurs during fall and winter. It's often thought to be more common in women than men and commonly affects people 18-30, but it can occur at any age.

SAD is thought to be caused by changes in the natural light schedule, which trigger the symptoms of depression. There's no one way to avoid getting SAD, but managing your mood and stress may help.

Can You Diagnose Seasonal Affective Disorder in Your Teen?

Don't try to diagnose your teen at home if he is experiencing symptoms of seasonal affective disorder (SAD). Consult your doctor for a complete examination. It’s possible your teen could be depressed for another reason. And SAD is frequently part of a more significant mental health problem like bipolar disorder.

You will be asked about your teen's symptoms by your health provider. They'll look at his symptoms and determine whether he has seasonal depression or another mood condition.

How to Treat Seasonal Depression

Your doctor will discuss treatment choices with you. Your teen may require a combination of therapies like the ones below.

Light Therapy

A particular kind of lamp is required for light therapy or phototherapy. It contains white fluorescent light tubes protected from UV rays by a plastic screen. The light is approximately 20 times brighter than standard indoor lighting. The light intensity emitted should be 10,000 lux.

When using phototherapy, avoid looking straight into the light. The light exposure should be indirect. Place the lamp two to three feet away while you read, dine, work, or do other things.

Daylight Therapy by Spending Time Outdoors

Morning daylight therapy appears to be effective. Your teen should attempt to get 10-30 minutes of sunlight in the morning hours if possible. Also, getting more sunlight in the house during the day is helpful.

Medication and Therapy

Antidepressants and cognitive behavior therapy (CBT) are effective in the long-term management of SAD. Talk to your doctor about your options.

Vitamin D

People with SAD can have low levels of vitamin D, which can be caused by a lack of the vitamin in their diet or a lack of exposure to sunlight. However, it is unknown whether vitamin D administration can help alleviate SAD symptoms.

Discuss vitamin supplementation with your doctor.

Omega-3 Fatty Acids

Foods high in omega-3 fatty acids promote brain health, and vitamin D packs a powerful punch. According to the National Institutes of Health, salmon and rainbow trout are high in omega-3 fatty acids and vitamin D. (NIH).

Liahona Academy Can Help

Liahona Academy is a boarding school for teens that offers year-round schooling options to help teens with depression and other mental health issues. They offer support, guidance, and resources to help students and parents deal with teens' everyday struggles.