Summer Seasonal Depression: Understanding and Treating the Less Common SAD

While seasonal affective disorder (SAD) is frequently enough linked to the darker months of autumn and winter, a subset of individuals experience significant psychological distress during the summer, battling what’s known as summer seasonal depression.

Understanding Summer Depression

summer, typically associated with warmth, vacations, and outdoor activities, can paradoxically trigger depressive symptoms in some people. These symptoms can include low energy, restlessness, sleep disturbances, changes in appetite, and a pervasive sense of unease [[1]].

Did You Know? Summer SAD is less prevalent than winter SAD, affecting an estimated 1% of the population compared to the 5% affected by winter SAD [[1]].

Triggers and Contributing Factors

Experts suggest that summer seasonal depression is often triggered by a combination of factors:

• Extreme heat and high humidity
• Disruptions in sleep patterns due to longer days
• The atypical effects of prolonged or intense sunlight exposure

Expert insights on Seasonal Depression

Özlem Balaban, a specialist in Mental Health and Psychiatric Disorders, explains that seasonal depression is a subtype of depression characterized by recurrent depressive episodes in specific seasons. While recovery is generally expected during spring and summer, some patients experience depression during these seasons instead of autumn and winter.

Balaban emphasizes the importance of the body’s 24-hour circadian rhythm, noting that disruption of this rhythm increases the risk of depression. Symptoms of depression include loss of pleasure in life (anhedonia), lack of interest in previously enjoyed activities, low energy, impaired attention and concentration, changes in sleep and appetite, slowed movements, and intense feelings of guilt or worthlessness.

Pro Tip: Maintaining a consistent sleep schedule, even on weekends, can help regulate your circadian rhythm and perhaps alleviate symptoms of summer depression.

Symptoms Specific to Summer Depression

In summer depression, patients frequently enough experience reduced sleep or insomnia, which can lead to excessive daytime sleepiness, increased appetite, weight gain, and cravings for carbohydrate-rich foods.

The Importance of Seeking Treatment for Seasonal Affective Disorder

Balaban stresses that depression is a significant public health issue but is treatable. Consulting a psychiatrist is crucial for accurate diagnosis and treatment based on scientific medical knowledge. Treatment options vary depending on the severity of symptoms. In mild to moderate cases, psychotherapy is usually the first step. For moderate to severe depression, medication is often necesary.

Bright light therapy has also become more common, especially for seasonal depression. It is indeed widely used in northern countries where winters are longer and darker. Though, its effectiveness for summer depression is still being studied [[1]].

Psychiatry offers many treatment options tailored to fit the unique needs of each person. Therefore, anyone feeling psychological distress should definitely consult a psychiatrist.

Are you experiencing symptoms of summer depression? What coping strategies have you found helpful?

Share this article with someone who might benefit from learning more about summer seasonal depression.

Disclaimer: This article provides general data and should not be considered medical advice.Consult with a qualified healthcare professional for diagnosis and treatment of any mental health condition.