Summer isn’t just a time for sunshine, social plans, and traveling for many people, summer can actually feel heavier, not lighter. In the summer many people navigate negative body image, increase in financial and social demands, exhaustion and routine changes. While most people have heard of “winter blues,” fewer talk about how heat and overstimulation in summer can impact mental health.
For many folks, the summer can bring new sensory challenges: navigating heat and humidity that often amplifies smells, increases fatigue, shortening fuses and making everyday environments feel overwhelming. Similar to depression in general, SAD affects women more frequently than men. The seasonal transition from cold to warm weather can also significantly impact mood, extending beyond typical summertime blues. These summer SAD symptoms are similar to those of general depression. Symptoms may include low energy, appetite changes, disrupted sleep, higher anxiety and irritability and poor concentration. You may be experiencing Summer SADs.
So how do we start to feel better? Well research suggests that its not one size fits all but there are some areas to monitor.
- Movement: The heat may make it hard to imagine exercising so remember to start small and find ways to engage in movement.
- Setting Realistic Expectations: Fear of missing out can lead to overcommitting, unrealistic expectations and anxiety that make navigating this condition more difficult. Pace yourself and remember that you’re allowed to rest.
- Regulate your temperature: use fans, loose clothing and incorporate breaks in cool environments to prevent exhaustion and still allow for outdoor activities.
- Speak with your therapist: Seek help from your mental health care providers and lean into support.
- Avoid Isolation: share with safe folks in your support system and let them know what you need. Letting your support system know ahead of time allows for you to regulate yourself without worry about how it may be perceived.
Remember, Summer is for your enjoyment and that may look different but it doesn’t make it wrong. Stay curious and know you are not alone.