When Summer Brings You Down: Coping With Seasonal Depression
A Guide to Summer Depression
Understanding Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) during Summers
Seasonal Affective Disorder is often associated with winters, characterized by a lack of sunlight. However, SAD can also occur during summers, particularly in regions with extreme heat and intense sunlight.
This blog will explore what SAD is, the nature of Summer SAD, its symptoms, causes, and effective coping strategies tailored for individuals living in extremely hot regions.
What is Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD)?
Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) is a type of depression that typically occurs in the winter season due to lack of sunlight and shorter days. It follows a seasonal pattern.
While winter SAD is quite well-known and heard of, Summer SAD is also a significant concern but very unknown.
People with Summer SAD experience depressive episodes during the hottest months, usually from May to September.
Symptoms of Summer Depression
The symptoms of Summer SAD can vary from person to person but generally include:
- Irritability and Agitation: The oppressive heat and humidity can lead to increased irritability and feelings of agitation.
- Insomnia: Difficulty sleeping due to the long daylight hours and extreme temperatures.
- Reduced Appetite: Usually winter SAD is associated with increased appetite but summer SAD often results in a loss of appetite.
- Anxiety: Elevated levels of anxiety are common, potentially exacerbated by the relentless heat.
- Fatigue and Lethargy: Because of the extreme heat, individuals may feel persistently tired and lack energy.
- Social Withdrawal: A tendency to avoid social interactions and activities, preferring to stay indoors.
Causes of Summer Depression
The exact causes of Summer SAD are not entirely well-researched and understood, but several logical factors are believed to contribute to its onset:
1. Heat and Humidity: The extreme temperatures and high humidity levels prevalent in the deserted UAE regions during the summer can be physically and mentally exhausting, leading to feelings of discomfort and distress.
2. Disruption of Sleep Cycle: Longer daylight hours can disrupt the body’s natural sleep-wake cycle, causing insomnia and other sleep-related issues.
3. Changes in Daily Routine: Because of extreme heat, humid weather, longer days and shorter nights; work schedules and daily routines can be affected, contributing to feelings of instability and stress.
Coping Strategies for Summer Depression
If you or anyone around you is experiencing the summer depression symptoms, here are some simple strategies to manage and alleviate the effects:
- Stay Hydrated and Stay Cool:
Use Air Conditioning to maintain a comfortable indoor temperature
Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water and fresh juices
Avoid beverages that can cause dehydration
- Adjust Your Routine:
Engage in indoor activities that you can enjoy, like playing board games, reading, or even practicing a hobby
Avoid exercising in extreme heat or peak sun hours to feel more energetic
Try considering indoor exercise options such as yoga, swimming, or gym to stay active (despite the heat) and avoid feelings of fatigue and tiredness.
If you do have to step out for urgent and unavoidable work, carry all necessary items to avoid the extreme heat.
- Modify Your Diet:
Focus on consuming balanced meals with plenty of fruits and green vegetables to remain fresh and hydrated throughout the day
Opt for light snacks like salads, buttermilk and yogurt to stay nourished without feeling heavy
Keeping all of this in mind, don’t OVERDO your diet or your fitness
- Prioritize Your Mental Health:
Seek Professional Help when you can see the symptoms still persisting
Find ways to lower your stress by practicing mindfulness, relaxation techniques or talking to your therapist
Stay connected to your friends and family, even if it’s through virtual means, just to combat the feelings of isolation
Conclusion
Summer SAD or summer depression is a real and challenging condition; the symptoms also vary from person to person. And while winter depression is known and treatment options are available, summer depression, as of now, is still a gray area with not much research.
Summer SAD is quite prevalent in regions with extreme heat like UAE, India. Understanding its symptoms and causes can be the first step in managing this disorder.
Remember, it’s essential to prioritize your mental as well as physical health, but please don’t hesitate to seek professional help if and when needed!
Lastly, stay cool, stay hydrated and take care of yourself!
