I simply can’t afford to be bogged down by the nuisance that is seasonal affective disorder. My responsibilities as a mother are endless, work is demanding, and let’s not forget the chaotic holiday season that’s just around the corner. I can’t just retreat under the covers like I dream of doing. There are cookies to bake, carols to sing, and an endless search through Pinterest for creative elf costumes or whatever else is trending.
After daylight saving time wraps up, the chilly, dim days bring a wave of melancholy that crashes over me. Waking up to a sunless day makes tackling the morning routine feel as challenging as teaching my stubborn 5-year-old how to tie her shoes. Checking off my to-do list feels as disheartening as realizing that a certain heartthrob from my youth is now gracing the cover of AARP. Getting through the day seems as unlikely as fitting back into those high-priced jeans I saved from 1995.
Unfortunately, my children and the daily grind don’t care if I’m feeling down when the clouds roll in. I have to rise and argue over breakfast choices and rush to catch the bus while waving goodbye to forgotten homework. I must muster the strength to face the day, even when all I want is to wrap myself in a blanket and binge-watch my favorite series.
Here are several reasons seasonal affective disorder can take a hike:
- I’m Swamped with Holiday Tasks. The list of to-dos this season is overwhelming. Between sending out holiday cards, baking cookies, and playing Santa Claus, I don’t have the luxury of feeling down before diving into the chaos of making everything magical.
- I Can’t Be a Grump. My kids shouldn’t have to remember their childhood with a perpetually frazzled mom in the background. I need to find a way to balance my more chaotic moments with a calmer presence—less drama, more joy.
- Sunny Days Make Me Feel Great. I can’t afford to live only for sunny days. Motherhood is a 24/7 commitment, come rain or shine. Every evening at 5 o’clock, it dawns on me once again that I’m responsible for dinner.
- I Want My Kids to Thrive. I don’t want them to dread the winter gloom as I do. I aim to model calmness rather than constantly clutching my sunlamp like a lifeline.
- I’m the Family’s Backbone. The glue that holds everything together can’t afford to stop managing homework, organizing treats for parties, or remembering dentist appointments.
- Sadness Is Not My Default Emotion. I resist feeling sad, and this only exacerbates the situation.
- When I’m Down, I Crave Comfort Food. This becomes a problem with holiday treats lying around. I can’t splurge on presents for everyone while also buying a new winter wardrobe.
Until there’s a miracle cure for the pesky seasonal affective disorder, I’ll keep pushing through the dreary days. I’ll rely on my happy lamp and vitamin D supplements, pretending they help, while I wait for sunshine to break through. And if we happen to cross paths in our pajamas on a gloomy winter day, let’s just nod and share a knowing smile—because we get it.
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Summary
Seasonal affective disorder can be a significant challenge, especially during the busy holiday season. Juggling responsibilities as a mother and the chaos of the holidays makes it difficult to succumb to feelings of sadness. By focusing on positivity and finding balance, one can navigate the darker days with resilience.