Mom's Talk Q & A

According to psychiatric researchers, Seasonal Affective Disorder occurs severely in about 6 percent of the population, but mild-to-moderate cases affect a significantly higher percentage of people. Symptoms include lethargy, lack of interest in daily activities, sadness and carbohydrate cravings. The disorder affects more people in northern climates. Do you think children are resilient in the face of winter blahs?

Ask yourself:

Has my child been more lethargic this winter?

Is he or she craving sweets more than usual?

Has it been a fight to get him or her out of bed in the morning?

How can you spot Seasonal Affective Disorder in your child? Do you suffer from this common form of depression yourself? If so, has it affected your parenting this winter? What strategies have you come up with to combat winter blahs and keep your family active?