It may not just be post-holiday trouble getting back into routine. In areas of the country where winter months bring shorter days and less sunlight, especially in the first quarter of the year, the “winter blues” is common, affecting up to 1 in 5 people in our state.
Michael Howell, a neurology professor at the University of Minnesota, says that 5-10% of people in our state experience symptoms of what is known as Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD), a more severe form of the winter blues.
It’s also important to know that 4 out of 5 people who experience the symptoms of SAD are women. If you are a mom experiencing irritability or other symptoms (see below), consider talking to your healthcare provider. Chances are that if you are not feeling yourself, it is unconsciously affecting your children,
If you’ve noticed your child struggling with any of the following symptoms, consider talking to your child’s healthcare provider about how you can best support your child’s wellbeing. (Source.)
- Moodiness (sad, depressed, irritable, emotional)
- Negative thinking (self-critical, sensitive to criticism, fault-finding)
- Lack of enjoyment (lack of interest in participating in social activities or activities they normally enjoy)
- Low energy (unmotivated, tired)
- Changes in sleep (sleep longer than usual; hard to wake up)
- Changes in eating (craving for comfort foods and comfort eating) and possible unusual weight gain
- Trouble concentrating (difficulty focusing)
Why does this happen seasonally? While studies are still being done to better understand this, we do know that less sunlight causes our brains to less serotonin and more melatonin. Serotonin is the chemical responsible for feelings of happiness and well-being while melatonin makes us feel sleepy!
In addition to talking to your healthcare provider, these things may help your child (and you) feel better:
- Getting outdoors every day for physical activity for at least 30 minutes: a walk or hike, a nature scavenger hunt, a walk with the dog, or seasonal sports such as sledding, ice skating, or skiing can all be great opportunities to get some sunlight and fresh air!
- Intentional time with loved ones: read stories, play board games, sing karaoke – spend time together!
- Intentional time with friends: plan a play date and stick to it, even if you don’t feel like it!
- Intentional time on an enjoyable hobby: crafting, music, reading, Lego-building
- Routine: keeping a consistent bedtime and wake up time
- Stay hydrated: drink plenty of water
- The right fuel: a meal plan that includes lots of whole grains, veggies and fruits will help you body and brain feel better!
- Lend a helping hand: make and deliver cookies to a friend or offer to shovel their sidewalk for them
- Open the blinds and curtains and allow plenty of sunlight into your home
- Have vitamin D levels checked and ensure you talk to your healthcare provider about what vitamins and/or supplements your child should be taking
