When most of us think of seasonal depression, we think of the winter blues or feelings of depression brought on by the darker, colder winter months. More and more experts, however, are noticing seasonal depression in the summer months. There’s even a clinical name for it – Summer-Onset Seasonal Affective Disorder or SO SAD.
“It is a thing. It is not as common as winter SAD,” Kathryn Roecklein, an assistant professor of psychology at the University of Pittsburgh, told TODAY. "We don’t have a lot of research on summer SAD."
So what causes SO SAD? Roecklein said that it’s likely related to how sun and UV light influence mood. “Heat, sun and UV exposure limit people’s ability to engage in pleasant activities,” she said. “It reduces your positive mood and increases depression.”
The heat can also worsen symptoms of clinical depression, bipolar disorder or other mental illnesses. What's more, interrupted routines, less available support systems, financial stress and body image issues can also contribute to summertime SAD, say experts.
Luckily, some of the same healthy habits that will help your recovery can help improve symptoms of SO SAD, including regular exercise, proper nutrition, stress management and surrounding yourself with positive people who will have a positive impact on your mood.
Recognizing SO SAD
The symptoms of summertime SAD are similar to winter SAD and include feeling depressed, hopeless, losing interest in fun activities and struggling to concentrate. Other symptoms include:
The symptoms of summertime SAD are similar to winter SAD and include feeling depressed, hopeless, losing interest in fun activities and struggling to concentrate. Other symptoms include:
- Feelings of anxiety, agitation or hopelessness
- Loss of energy
- Insomnia
- Weight loss
- Loss of appetite
- Difficulty making decisions
- Lack of interest or participation in things you usually enjoy
- Withdrawal or isolation
- Consistent feelings of sadness
Relapse Prevention at Haus Recovery
If you’re feeling depressed this summer, it’s smart to seek help and regularly attend 12-step meetings. At Haus, we’ll ensure you stay part of a strong recovery community and learn habits to help safeguard your mental health and sobriety. To learn more about our relapse prevention program, call today: 888-551-4725.