Low mood in children often shows up in ways that are easy to misinterpret — especially in January.

In this Blue Monday week episode, Ashley explores what low mood can look like in children, what’s happening in the brain, and how parents and teachers can respond in ways that support recovery rather than add pressure.

This episode is for anyone supporting children at home or in school.

In this episode, we cover:

How low mood in children often looks like irritability or withdrawal
The difference between low mood and defiance
How stress and reduced daylight affect children’s brains
Why January increases vulnerability for many children
How school and home responses can work together

Practical takeaways:

What genuinely helps children experiencing low mood
How predictability and connection support emotional safety
Why adjusting demand can be protective, not permissive
What well-intentioned responses often make things harder
When to keep an eye on things and seek extra support

Key reminder:

Low mood is information — not failure.
And children recover best when the adults around them respond with steadiness, understanding, and connection.

🎧 Share this episode with a teacher or parent supporting a child who feels “not quite themselves” right now.

Spotify –

YouTube –

Time Stamps:

00:00 Introduction to Low Mood in Kids and Teens

00:30 Understanding January Blues

02:14 Recognising Low Mood Symptoms

03:35 Brain Science Behind Low Mood

07:14 Why January Exacerbates Low Mood

09:03 Effective Strategies for Parents and Educators

16:59 What Not to Do: Common Mistakes

19:03 When to Seek Help

20:20 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

Find all the resources in our Listeners Lounge

https://www.theresilientacademy.co.uk/lounge

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