Crusader Connection
A Note from the Principal
From the SAP Counselor
- What Is Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD)?
- Seasonal affective disorder (SAD) is depression that happens to a person only at a specific time of year. With SAD, a person becomes depressed in fall or winter, when days are shorter and it gets dark earlier. SAD is brought on by the brain’s response to the seasonal changes in daylight. When the daylight hours grow longer again, the depression lifts.
- Reduced sunlight during winter may lead to a higher amount of melatonin and lower serotonin levels, creating biological conditions for SAD.
- The brain’s serotonin and melatonin production actively regulate mood, energy, and sleep patterns. Melatonin regulates sleep. If the body releases it in more massive amounts, you may feel lethargic and sleepy. Production of serotonin increases with more exposure to sunlight. As such, reduced serotonin is related to depression symptoms.
- Warning signs to look out for:
- Lack of interest in social activities
- Difficulty completing tasks
- Reduced concentration and focus
- Low energy levels
- A tendency to oversleep and overea
- If you feel your teen exhibits these warning signs please reach out to the following resources:
- SAP counselor Mrs. Stiles stilesa@chsvb.org
- School guidance counselor Mrs. Bonvie or Mr. Campbell
- School Nurse
- Your child’s pediatrician
- It may be helpful for teens to save several emergency numbers in their cell phones. The ability to get immediate help for themselves or for a friend can make a difference.
- Suicide and Crisis Lifeline (988)
- The crisis text line (Text HOME to 741741)
- Virginia Beach Non-emergency line (757-385-5000)