As the days grow shorter and the weather turns colder, many of us feel the effects of the changing seasons. For some children, however, the winter months bring more than just chilly mornings—they bring symptoms of Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD). As an online education provider, TLC LIVE Online School understands the impact mental health can have on learning, and we’re here to support families navigating these challenges. With the NHS stating that 20% of children between the ages of 8 and 25 having a probable mental health condition and 5% of children are believed to suffer from SAD, the winter blues are more than just a hang over from the highs of Christmas.
What is Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD)?
SAD is a type of depression that typically occurs during the darker months of the year, caused by reduced exposure to natural light. While it’s often associated with adults, children and teenagers can also experience its symptoms, which might include:
- Fatigue and low energy
- Difficulty concentrating
- Changes in sleep patterns
- Increased irritability or sadness
- Loss of interest in activities they usually enjoy
For students, all of these symptoms can affect their engagement with education both on their own and within the class setting.
How online learning can help
Are you someone who when the alarm goes off and it’s still dark outside you just want to hit the snooze button and bury your head back into the pillow? Me too. As a teenager having to get up early, get ready for school, travel to the physical school site, all in time for morning registration, this was even more difficult.
Online education provides a flexible and supportive environment that can be particularly beneficial for children experiencing SAD. Here’s how TLC LIVE Online School helps students maintain their mental well-being during the winter months:
A comfortable learning environment
Studying from home allows students to create a workspace tailored to their needs. Cozy blankets, warm drinks, and familiar surroundings can help foster a sense of security and comfort, easing the emotional strain that SAD may bring.
Flexibility to incorporate well-being practices
The structure of online education allows families to prioritise mental health activities alongside academics. Students can step outside during daylight hours for a walk, engage in mindfulness practices, or schedule short breaks to enjoy uplifting activities — all without the rigidity of a traditional school day. At TLC LIVE Online School, Wednesdays are all about this, allowing students time to focus on themselves and their wellbeing, whilst also having mentoring and PSHE sessions.
Small class sizes with personalised support
Sometimes the biggest impact can be someone asking “are you ok?” In large classes, it can be difficult for this to happen, especially if a student is already quiet. With TLC LIVE Online School for example, small group classes mean students receive more focused attention from fully qualified teachers. This allows our educators to notice changes in behaviour or engagement and offer tailored support to children who may be struggling.
Access to safe, non-judgemental learning spaces
For children with SAD, anxiety about social interactions can sometimes exacerbate their symptoms. Online learning removes many of the pressures associated with a traditional classroom, allowing students to interact at their own pace and even keep cameras off to help them feel more at ease.
Practical tips for managing SAD
In addition to the benefits of online learning, here are some simple strategies families can use to help children cope with SAD:
- Maximise natural light: Encourage children to spend time outdoors during daylight hours. Position their study area near a window to make the most of available sunlight.
- Boost confidence: Sometimes the biggest impact is just hearing and feeling positive affirmation. Try and incorporate opportunities for young people to do things they excel at and give them praise for doing their best or trying something new.
- Establish routine sleep patterns: Consistent sleep schedules can help regulate mood and energy levels.
- Stay active: Physical activity, even indoors, can boost mood and combat fatigue. It also helps with establishing sleep patterns.
- Use light therapy: A lightbox designed to mimic natural sunlight can be a helpful tool for some children.
- Open conversations: Make space to talk about how your child is feeling. Letting them know their emotions are valid can be a powerful first step. Also be patient and know that it might take time for a child to engage in conversation about how they are feeling.
If you’d like to learn more about how our online school can support your child’s education and mental health, reach out to our team today.
By Josh Blackburn, Chief Executive Officer, TLC LIVE Online Tutoring