Unveiling Subtle Signs of Summer Depression and Strategies for Improvement

Summer is a time for sunshine, vacations, and relaxation, but for some, it can be a season of depression. Known as Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) in summer, this type of depression affects people during the summer months.

Young adults living near the equator are most frequently affected by summer SAD. However, it's important to note that anyone can experience summer depression, regardless of their location.

One of the contributing factors to summer depression is disrupted schedules. Changes in work, sleep, and eating habits due to vacations can take a toll on mental health. Heat and humidity can also become oppressive for some people, leading to a reliance on unhealthy takeout food and avoiding outdoor activities, which can further contribute to summer depression.

Body image issues, particularly feeling self-conscious in shorts or a swimsuit, can also contribute to summer depression. Instead of trying an excessively restrictive diet, exercise sensibly and eat moderately.

Financial concerns, such as the cost of vacations, summer camps for children, and potential job instability, can also contribute to summer depression. Before booking your summer vacation, consider if it will make you happy or cause additional stress. Consider alternatives like taking several long weekends or a "staycation."

If you're taking medication for depression, discuss with your doctor about adjusting your dose to help prevent summer depression problems. Getting enough sleep and engaging in regular physical activity can also help prevent and manage summer depression.

Symptoms of summer depression include loss of appetite, sleep problems, weight loss, anxiety, agitation, irritability, feelings of uselessness or guilt, and suicidal thoughts. If you're experiencing these symptoms, it's crucial to seek help from a mental health professional.

For some people, summer depression has a biological cause, similar to winter SAD. If you've been battling summer depression year after year, reflect on potential reasons such as association with difficult past moments or previous episodes of summer depression.

One of the challenges of summer depression is feeling out of sync with others. Focus on what's triggering your summer depression and how you can overcome it, rather than worrying about how you feel in relation to others. Planning ahead for the summer, including making plans to prevent summer depression and managing work and childcare, can help manage summer depression.

Don't let obligations drag you down during summer. If you feel overwhelmed, consider giving family gatherings a pass or asking another family member to host. With the right treatment, summer depression can be managed, and the season can be enjoyed to the fullest.

It's essential to remember that help is available. If you're experiencing symptoms of summer depression, don't hesitate to reach out to a mental health professional. With the right support, you can navigate the summer months and make the most of the season.