it is so hard to watch our children struggle. I have had many years in the past where I had a very hard time during this time of year, and I think seasonal depression can be even more challenging for us Oregonians. A light therapy box and anti-depressants were helpful for both myself and my oldest son, who has also experienced seasonal depression. Reducing stressors as much as we possibly can during this time has also helpful. That is not always easy to do though with school and other responsibilities. I think depression makes it hard to give ourselves ourselves grace, but it so important that we do. Sometimes a weekend (or even a week) of warm blankies, and guilt free Netflix binging is just what the doctor ordered.