The mental health of students has long been a topic of concern, as they play a significant role in many lives. Whether in high school, university, or elementary school, their well-being matters deeply. The holiday season is often viewed as a time of joy and celebration, but in recent years, growing attention has been drawn to a shadow lingering over this time of year. Shorter days, limited outdoor activity, and reduced sunlight are affecting many people—not just students. This phenomenon, known as Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD), is commonly referred to as seasonal depression. While SAD can impact anyone, students may be among the most vulnerable.
At Mount Vernon High School (MVHS), some students report experiencing symptoms of seasonal depression, which adversely affect their academic performance and social lives. Common struggles include a lack of motivation, difficulty focusing, and feeling overwhelmed. Some students have difficulty identifying their emotions, but many acknowledge that this season significantly impacts their ability to perform at their best.
Nemours KidsHealth explains SAD symptoms as follows: “SAD can cause a mood that’s sad, depressed, or irritable… People may feel tired, low on energy, or lack motivation to do things… Like any depression, SAD can make it hard to focus. This can affect schoolwork and grades.”
For teenagers, managing these challenges can be particularly difficult, as they often juggle academics, social lives, and personal responsibilities without fully developed emotional regulation skills.
Three MVHS students shared their experiences with seasonal depression, describing various symptoms. The students asked us not to use their names. One student expressed feelings of exhaustion and irritability during winter, while another noted feeling overwhelmed by the workload during this time. A third student explained that they feel confident and organized in the fall, but as winter arrives, they feel as though “everything is moving too fast” and struggle to keep up. These shared experiences highlight the diversity of symptoms and the unique ways SAD can manifest.
One lesser-discussed symptom of SAD is weight gain and overeating. A student mentioned using food as a coping mechanism during difficult times. The Cleveland Clinic supports this observation, noting that carbohydrate cravings and weight gain are common symptoms of SAD. Additionally, hypersomnia (excessive sleeping) often accompanies these behaviors. Research indicates that SAD is more prevalent among individuals assigned female at birth, who also report experiencing overeating and hypersomnia more frequently than those assigned male at birth.
Like other forms of depression, SAD can lead to thoughts of suicide, a serious concern that must not be ignored. Students are encouraged to reach out to trusted adults if they or someone they know is experiencing suicidal thoughts. Feelings of worthlessness are a warning sign, and vigilance is essential to supporting those in need.
The interviewed students also offered advice on coping with seasonal depression. They emphasized the importance of seeking help from trusted individuals at MVHS, including counselors and teachers. One student advised pushing through challenging times, even when it feels impossible, reminding peers that “there is an end to the night.”
Seasonal Affective Disorder is a complex and multifaceted condition, but with awareness, support, and self-compassion, it is possible to navigate its challenges and find light during the darker months.
