Hey friends! Let’s chat about something that’s been weighing on my mind—Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD). From March to October, I’m the quintessential fun mom. I’m all about hosting backyard barbecues, organizing bonfires with marshmallows for the kiddos, and running carpools to soccer practice. I even whip up Jell-O shots for the other parents during trick-or-treating! I love being involved in everything from school events to Girl Scout meetings, and I genuinely have a blast—sometimes even forgetting to share it on social media.
But when November hits, it’s like a switch flips. Daylight saving time? Ugh, I dread it. That’s when my SAD kicks in, and I feel like a stranger in my own body. My partner, Jake, can’t understand why I’m so drained, and my son, Max, often asks, “Why is Mom always grumpy?” or “Can we just let Mom sleep a bit longer?”
It’s estimated that about 6% of folks in the U.S., especially those in the colder climates, are affected by SAD, while another 14% experience milder winter blues. For me, SAD means that getting out of bed feels monumental, and tackling everyday tasks can feel like wading through molasses. There are days when I can’t leave my bed, leaving Jake to handle everything. Then comes the guilt—why can’t I just power through? Max deserves a mom who can pack his lunch and make sure he has breakfast before school. Jake should have a wife who isn’t asleep by 8:30 PM and who can actually engage in a conversation or go out on a date instead of napping. It’s frustrating and makes me feel like I’m failing.
Winter is supposed to be festive and joyful, but for me, it marks the start of a really tough season. Here are a few things those of us with SAD want you to know:
1. We’re really trying hard.
I don’t want my son to know that just washing my hair or brushing my teeth feels like a chore some days. When the alarm goes off, I drag myself downstairs, praying that coffee will give me a little boost before I can crawl back into bed. I usually take pride in my appearance, but during winter, comfy leggings and oversized tees become my go-to. I might not look put-together, but I’m doing my best to be present. I make sure to pick Max up from school on time, dinner is on the table, and homework gets done. By 8 PM, I feel like I’ve run a marathon—but I’m trying.
2. Please be patient with us.
I don’t want to snap at Max while helping him with math homework, and I definitely don’t want to feel overwhelmed by a sink full of dirty dishes. I wish I could just “snap out of it,” but it’s not that simple. Like anyone, I want to enjoy life and the little moments, so please bear with us.
3. Self-care is essential.
For me, self-care means taking my vitamins, especially a double dose of vitamin D, every morning. I sit next to a SAD light for a few hours each day, and I make it to my noon fitness class, no matter what. That hour of lifting weights and pushing myself, surrounded by supportive friends, gives me the endorphins I need to tackle the rest of the day. Self-care looks different for everyone—maybe it’s medication, yoga, or changing your diet—but it’s crucial for us to find healthy ways to cope.
4. We will get better.
I eagerly count down to spring and the return of daylight saving time. While most dread losing an hour of sleep, I can’t wait for the sunshine streaming through my windows and the longer days ahead. I feel excited again and look forward to soccer practices and family adventures. I even start thinking about hosting sleepovers for the neighborhood kids. It can be tough to remember that brighter days are coming during the cold, gloomy winter months, but they always do.
So, if you’re navigating your own journey with SAD or know someone who is, remember that we’re all doing our best. And if you’re exploring options for starting a family, check out resources like Make A Mom for at-home insemination solutions, or learn more about how it works here. Joining a supportive group like Make A Mom’s Facebook group can also be invaluable.
In conclusion, living with SAD is not easy, but with understanding and support, brighter days are ahead!
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