Preparing for Seasonal Depression Awareness Month

Seasonal weather changes and shortened days leave people spending more time indoors which could possibly affect student and teacher moral. This December, Seasonal Depression Awareness Month, take the time to understand the symptoms and preventative measures you can take to steer clear of seasonal depression.

According to the National Center for Biotechnology Information, six percent of the U.S. population, primarily in northern climates, is affected by Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD). Another 14 percent of the adult population experiences a lesser form, characterized by seasonal mood changes and known as the winter blues.

One way districts can help battle student depression is to offer positive youth development activities. The National Research Council has identified several characteristics for programs that support and promote the positive development of youth, including: physical and psychological safety, appropriate structure, supportive relationships, opportunities to belong, positive social norms, support for efficacy and mattering, opportunities for skill-building, and integration of family, school and community efforts.

What is your district doing to help beat seasonal depression in staff and students? PublicSchoolWORKS offers several courses to help train teachers to understand and intervene when students are showing signs of depression, including Depression in Students and Positive Youth Development. To learn more, email sales@publicschoolworks.com.