Many people look forward to the summer months. The thoughts of long, warm days with plentiful time for family and friends can be immensely comforting during the dark, cold winter months. However, for some, the summer months coincide with their symptoms of depression.
Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) is common during the winter months in North America, both in prevalence and discussion. However, some people experience the opposite pattern, with their depressive symptoms beginning in the spring or early summer and progressing to become severe. This is called Summertime SAD or Reverse SAD and is less common than Wintertime SAD. Symptoms of Summertime SAD typically include sad or low mood, anxiety, agitation, reduced appetite, weight loss, and difficulty sleeping. For those affected, symptoms cause significant distress and interfere with their daily functions. The causes of summertime SAD are still largely unknown, however some contributing factors may include:
Heat
Humidity
Longer days
Disruptions in routine/schedule/habits
Changes in sleep due to disruptions in routine/schedule/habits
Not being able to fulfill summer vacation fantasies due to limited finances and time.
Health reasons limiting summer activities, leading to isolation and sadness.
Anxiety or avoiding participating in some outdoor activities due to body image concerns.
A source of difficulty with this type of depression is the stigma surrounding it. SAD is stigmatized no matter the season, although individuals dealing with Summertime SAD may feel that it is silly or childish to be depressed during the summer months, particularly while their friends and family are basking in the beautiful days. It may also feel as though something is wrong with them since it is a widespread belief that people are supposed be feel happy during the summer, especially after the long months of winter that are experienced in Canada. This, of course, is not the case, as there is no "correct" or "incorrect" time to feel depressed throughout the year.
If you feel SAD in the summer, know you are not alone. Many people feel this way when seasons change and there are ways to adjust to your changing moods and needs. Various coping strategies to consider include:
Avoid withdrawing socially – as much as you want to stay inside, it is important to stay active! Going out and engaging in daily routines, exercise, and social activities with friends and family are especially important for your mental wellbeing.
Maintain a healthy diet and eating schedule – this not only helps to fuel your body to keep going with activities, but also helps your sleep, mood, and energy level.
Maintain proper sleep hygiene and sleep schedule.
Talk to someone – taking to someone about your thoughts and feelings has many benefits, including releasing built-up tension, gaining a new perspective, and seeing your situation more clearly.
Set a financial budget – in the spring or early summer, set a budget in order to better plan the activities you want to engage in over the summer.
Take note of your prior experiences – understanding what has been helpful or harmful for you in past summers will help you plan to avoid stressors or know when to reach out for help during the summer.
Remember, your experiences with Summertime SAD are valid, you are not alone in your struggles, and there are ways to navigate these challenges!
Resources
If you are in need of crisis assistance, please do not hesitate to reach out to one of the helplines below:
Suicide Crisis Helpline: 988 (call or text)
Manitoba Suicide Prevention & Support Line (24/7): 1-877-435-7170
Klinic Crisis Line (24/7): 204-786-8686 or 1-888-322-3019
Mobile Crisis Service (204-940-1781)
First Nations and Inuit Hope For Wellness (24/7) – Services available in Cree, Ojibway (Anishinaabemowin), Inuktitut, French and English: 1-855-242-3310
Trans Lifeline: 1-877-330-6366
About the Author
Ashley (she/her)
Hi! My name is Ashley, and I am the Student Wellness Program Assistant. I am currently finishing up my final year in the Honours Psychology Program with a minor in Anthropology. I am passionate about the health and wellness of my communities and learning about how to improve the system to better serve these communities. Outside of work and school, I enjoy painting, reading, swimming, and spending time with my dog.
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