Mental health experts discuss school stress and seasonal fatigue

Psychologists are addressing common seasonal and situational mental health challenges, such as school-related stress in children and autumn fatigue in adults.

Regarding school-aged children, psychologist Lenka Kvašňáková notes that crying or refusing to attend school can be a natural reaction to new routines and the challenge of integrating into a new social group. She advises parents not to panic unless these behaviors persist for several weeks. Parents are cautioned that pressuring children with questions about fear or strict demands for sleep can inadvertently increase stress; instead, setting a good example through personal behavior is recommended.

For adults, psychologist Alexandra Smiešna explains that 'autumn blues' is a natural response to reduced sunlight, which causes the brain to produce more melatonin and less serotonin. While this can lead to fatigue and nostalgia, it differs from Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) or clinical depression. SAD is characterized by excessive sleepiness and a direct reaction to light loss, whereas clinical depression often involves insomnia and an emotional emptiness that significantly impairs daily functioning for at least two weeks.