SAD stands for Seasonal Affective Disorder.
I remember first hearing about SAD and thinking, “Is that actually a thing?”
Basically, it’s depression that occurs during the same time each year, usually winter, though for some it can be in the summer. And I can assure you, it is real. Shortly after my 3rd child was born I started to notice that the winter days weren’t just long.
They were excruciatingly endless.
According to Web MD, symptoms of SAD are:
- Less energy
- Trouble concentrating
- Fatigue
- Greater appetite
- Increased desire to be alone
- Greater need for sleep
- Weight gain
Do you struggle with SAD? If you do, know you are not alone. Up to 20% of people, mostly women, get SAD. Obviously, that falls along a spectrum with some cases being more severe, while most are on the milder side.
As you can imagine, parenting, not to mention, HOMESCHOOLING, is much harder with SAD. It can be a real struggle to get motivated. Last week, for most of the week, I felt like crawling in my bed and sleeping all day. My motivation and energy disappeared into the deep abyss known as February.
Combatting SAD
There are many things you can do to improve SAD. An extensive list is found here. For me, what helps the MOST is exercising, even especially when I don’t feel like it (which is pretty much always.)
Days when I can get even 10 minutes of walking in on the treadmill, I have much more energy and motivation. An even better option would be walking outside, and bonus points if it’s sunny.
Vitamins, a healthy diet, and adequate sleep help too. Many people have Vitamin D deficiency. If you think you’re deficient, you’ll want to work with your doctor on that.
Lots of things help, but for me, exercise is the secret sauce to combatting SAD. My day can turn from a downward trajectory to an upward one after a simple 15-20 minute walk!
**It’s important to note if you’re feeling especially down, with no relief, you should seek professional help.
Homeschooling with SAD
As far as homeschooling, keeping it lighter during the long winter days is also helpful. Up the audiobooks and the game-playing, and lower expectations of yourself.
Obviously, you still need to move forward with school, but do cut yourself some slack if you’re dealing with SAD. Send the kids outside for a bit each day (if you can!) Make more soups, that warm the soul. Turn some twinkle lights on, and crank up (ever so lightly) some music. You can also check out these mood-busters, many of which were also mentioned in this post
And remember, spring is around the corner. It won’t be long until you’re able to pack that long-underwear away (at least for a few months!) and bask in the warmth of the sun.
