Blog
When the Seasons Shift: Understanding SAD in Families in Care
As the days grow shorter and the temperatures drop, many people find themselves feeling a little less motivated, a little more tired, and a little more sad than usual. For families in care, these seasonal changes can hit even harder.
Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) is more than just the “winter blues.” It’s a type of depression that occurs during certain seasons, often in the fall and winter, when sunlight is limited. The lack of light affects our body’s natural rhythms, leading to mood changes, fatigue, and even difficulty concentrating.
For caregivers and children navigating kinship care, foster care, or family transitions, these symptoms can sometimes be mistaken for burnout, grief, or behavioral challenges. That’s why it’s important to recognize the signs early and respond with compassion.
Remember: experiencing SAD doesn’t mean something is “wrong” with you—it’s your body and mind responding to the environment. With care, community, and light (both literal and emotional), you can make it through the darker months with hope and strength.