Updated on 06/29/23

When I think of summer, some thoughts that come to mind include sun, cookouts, the beach, vacation, and spending time with family and friends. These thoughts create positive feelings for me, and they are things I look forward to. Though summer is often described as “fun in the sun,” the season can pose difficulties for some who experience seasonal affective disorder (SAD, also known as seasonal depression) during the summer months. Even if seasonal depression is not something that you’ve had in the past, feelings of depression can arise due to the loss of normalcy you may experience during this summer season. Let’s explore seasonal affective disorder as well as warning signs of depression that you may be experiencing for the first time during this unique summer season.

What is Seasonal Affective Disorder?

SAD, or seasonal depression, is a form of depression that occurs when there is a seasonal weather change. When we think of seasonal depression, we often think about the seasons of fall and winter. This is because most individuals experience seasonal depression when the days get shorter and colder. Individuals who suffer from SAD in the fall and winter months often experience symptoms of oversleeping, loss of energy, weight gain and loss of interest in enjoyable activities. Yet seasonal depression during spring and summer is not uncommon.  Similar to seasonal depression that occurs in the colder months, individuals with seasonal affective disorder in the spring and summer months can also feel a loss of interest in activities they enjoy and low energy. Symptoms of summer seasonal depression also include weight loss, difficulty sleeping and anxiety. Though summer is seen as a time of relaxation and celebration, for many individuals with SAD, it can be a difficult time filled with frustration. Stressors such as changes in routine, extra financial responsibilities, increased time with extended family members and pressures to obtain “beach bodies” can all contribute to seasonal affective disorder in the summertime. Society’s emphasis that summer is filled with good times can further ignite feelings of shame and depression and encourage isolation in those with SAD, so as to not ruin anyone’s fun. It’s important for individuals who suffer from summer onset of SAD to understand that they are not alone, and they do not have to suppress their feelings of depression. It is OK to seek professional help if seasonal affective disorder is gravely interfering with your daily routine. Mental health treatment can be provided through Discovery Mood & Anxiety Program.

Summer Depression Following a Difficult Event

Even if you have not been diagnosed with seasonal affective disorder, summertime after a difficult event can present unique challenges that could cause depressive symptoms. Children are typically out of school for the summer and families have to adjust to different activities, mealtimes and sleeping patterns. Many families take on the responsibility of making plans for summer holidays and vacations. When negative feeling last for days at a time and you feel like you can’t manage your moods, it is important to determine if you are experiencing depression. Here are a few depression symptoms to be aware of during this summer.

Signs of Seasonal Affective Disorder

1. Loss of Interest

If you find that you are not interested in doing anything at all, this may be a sign of depression. This symptom also coincides with the symptom of hopelessness. When you feel hopeless, you often don’t want to engage in any activities that can bring you pleasure.

2. Loss of Energy

Summertime is often a season of being on the go. With warmer weather, individuals take the opportunity to get outside and participate in activities like swimming, walking or playing sports. But in general, we have had to spend a lot more time indoors over the last few years. Though our normal energy levels may be down due to our environments, it’s important to notice if you are sleeping excessively or if you do not have energy to do simple tasks. If so, you may be experiencing depression. Try to find ways to stay mentally and physically active. If you find that your lack of motivation is severely impairing your activity levels, talk to a mental health professional about depression.

As with any season, it is important to check in with yourself and make sure you are managing your mental health needs. Whether you are accustomed to seasonal depression or are experiencing depressive symptoms for the first time, make sure you have the resources needed to have a healthy summer, both physically and mentally. If you need mental health treatment, Discovery Mood & Anxiety Program is available to meet your therapeutic needs.

April Cox is a permanency specialist II at Professional Family Care Services in Johnstown, Pennsylvania. She is passionate about the mental health of individuals and families and prides her work on providing practical ways to promote mental health wellness. April received her bachelor’s in sociology and has worked as a therapeutic staff support, family-based counselor and drug and alcohol counselor before transitioning to child welfare, where she helps foster children and foster families process past traumas. April is passionate about the arts and spends her evenings teaching dance classes to all ages.

More Articles from Discovery Mood & Anxiety Program: