Got that Summertime Sadness?
When it comes to the summertime most people think of fun outdoor events. Some think of the sun and cookouts, while others might imagine the beach, a nice vacation, or just spending lots of time with family and friends. These are positive images and something a lot of people look forward to. However, some people don’t always look at summer as “fun in the sun.” Some people find the summer difficult as their seasonal depression hits them in the warmer months.
What is Seasonal Affective Disorder?
Seasonal depression or Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) is a form of depression that occurs in individuals when the seasonal weather changes. Most people who think of seasonal depression think of the colder, darker seasons like fall and winter. Most individuals who experience seasonal depression experience it during these colder months and end up oversleeping, losing energy, gaining weight, and losing interest in things that once found enjoyable. It is not uncommon to experience these effects in the spring or summer, however, most people that suffer from SAD in the spring and summer experience a lack of sleep, weight loss, and anxiety. Changes in routine, extra financial responsibilities, increased time with family and friends, and the pressure to have a summer body can call be major stressors that contribute to experiencing seasonal depression in the summer.
Symptoms of SAD
The two biggest signs of Seasonal Affective Disorder that are present in the summer are loss of interest and lack of energy. If you find that you are not interested in enjoying summer activities you once loved, this may be a sign of seasonal depression and can coincide with a feeling of hopelessness. Summertime is usually a season of constantly being on the go. With warmer weather, there is more opportunity for activities. However, after spending the last few years confined to our own spaces, people are finding that their energy level is not what it once was. This is normal, and everyone will adjust back differently, however, it is important to take note if you are sleeping excessively, or if you don’t have the energy to complete what were once simple, routine tasks.
Many people who experience summertime seasonal depression tend to feel very isolated and alone, which will often lead to them suppressing their feelings of depression, to not ruin anyone else’s fun. It’s important to understand that if you are feeling this way, you are not alone and it is okay to seek professional help, especially if it is affecting your daily life. With the recency of the pandemic, many people are ready to get back to making plans and resuming a normal summer routine, but others have grown comfortable with the new peace and privacy that came from a pandemic and post-pandemic summer. Everyone will be adjusting to this transition at a different pace, and you shouldn’t feel abnormal for wanting to ease yourself back into a more social summer.
Just like any season, it is important to check in with your emotional and physical needs and make sure that you are managing your mental health. Whether seasonal depression is something routine to you, or this is the first time you are experiencing symptoms, make sure to utilize resources to help you have a healthy summer. We have multiple skilled therapists on staff who are accepting new clients and are here to help you. Check out our team, to see if any of them may be the right fit for you!
