The psychology of Summer
For those of us who don’t have summer depression, we feel happier, more energetic and lively as the summer sun bounces of our skin, but why is this?
As the days get longer and we experience more sunlight serotonin increases. This helps us feel more motivated, happier and fulfilled. Besides that individuals often report higher levels of exercise, this can be in the form of sports, hiking or even choosing to go for an outdoor BBQ instead of a home dinner, this increase in activity increases, physical, cardiovascular and mental health
But does this happen to everyone or do some suffer from Summer Depression ?
What is Summer Pattern SAD?
Summer Pattern SAD is a form of depression that occurs yearly, beginning in spring/summer and wearing off in autumn. It is less widely recognised, but still equally detrimental as its counterpart: Winter pattern SAD.
Researchers believe it may be linked to:
- Disrupted sleep cycles: Increases in sunlight hours may impact on the hours of sleep, leading to disruptions in the circadian rhythm and melatonin production
- Extreme heat and humidity: Extreme heat can lead to lethargy and fatigue, as well as disrupting sleep quality
- Seasonal Allergies: Researchers believe increases pollen levels could be linked to inflammation and lower mood and mental health
- Social and financial Stress: Societal Pressure to go on luxurious out-of-budget holidays during summer can contribute to negative mental health
Common symptoms don’t always mirror the symptoms you’d expect from depression, they can be varied
Check the list of symptoms below:
- Trouble sleeping / Insomnia
- Reduced appetite
- Weight loss
- Irritability
- Severe Anxiety
- Headaches / Brain-fog
- Decrease in pleasure from previously pleasurable activities
The symptoms are often times dismissed as summer is seen as a time of happiness and life, however it can lead to people suffering from SAD to live isolated and hesitant to seek help
Many people sufferen from this illness often suffer in isolation. It is common to find them dismissing their own symptoms as they believe that summer should be a time of happiness and life – and paradoxically ignoring their own symptom
How to know if you have Summer Pattern SAD.
summer-pattern SAD is treatable, and support can be tailored to what’s actually driving your symptoms. Approaches may include:
Talk therapy — Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) can help identify and shift negative thought patterns and behaviours
Routine and sleep support — Structuring your day, especially sleep and wake times, can help to regulate your mood.
Environmental adjustments — Simple changes like blackout curtains, cooling strategies, and managing light exposure in the evening can make a meaningful difference.
Medication, when appropriate — A conversation with a psychiatric provider about medication options can be a helpful part of a treatment plan.
Support that fits your life — Working with a provider who understands seasonal patterns means your care can adjust as the seasons do.
More importantly – don’t hesitate to call a therapist or psychiatrist for a proper diagnosis, Click here for a free consultation
What can help
Don’t push through by yourself
If summer has quietly become a season you dread, that’s worth talking about. Summer-pattern SAD is real, it’s treatable. you deserve support that meets you where you are — not where the calendar says you should be.
Suffering by yourself has never helped anyone – If you are ready to talk about your symptoms and try and seek the correct help
book your free consultation now and get in touch with our specialists