Summer Depression: The Silent Struggle
Summer is often seen as a time of joy and outdoor activities, but for those suffering from summer depression, it can be a challenging and isolating experience. Unlike its more well-known cousin, winter seasonal affective disorder (SAD), summer depression has received less attention in research and general awareness. However, experts believe that it is a serious condition that deserves more study and concern.
According to Norman Rosenthal, a psychiatrist at Georgetown University School of Medicine who first described SAD in 1984, the symptoms of winter and summer SAD are different. While both conditions are characterized by a sad mood and reduced feelings of pleasure, winter depression patients tend to oversleep, overeat, and feel sluggish, whereas summer depression patients experience insomnia, reduced appetite, and agitation.
One concerning aspect of summer depression is its increased risk of suicide. Suicidal behavior tends to peak in the late spring and early summer, but decreases during the winter. This may be because patients with winter depression lack the energy to carry out their plan, while those with summer depression, who are both sad and agitated, may have the energy to harm themselves.
The causes of summer depression are believed to be related to the distinct environmental features of the season, such as heat, humidity, and pollen. Bright light can be triggering for some individuals with summer depression and may even predispose them to mania. Higher temperatures have also been linked with higher rates of suicide and depressive symptoms, as well as a decline in mental well-being.
Kelly Rohan, a professor of psychological science at the University of Vermont, emphasizes that summer sadness is not all in a person’s head; it is a real condition that should be acknowledged and treated by medical professionals. The challenge, however, lies in understanding why some people are more vulnerable to summer depression than others. Experts believe that a shared vulnerability to mood disorders and a malfunction in the body’s ability to regulate temperature may be contributing factors.
As climate change continues to affect our environment, there is concern that summer SAD may become more prevalent. Heat waves, which are exacerbated by climate change, have been linked to worse mental health outcomes. Researchers predict that global warming will increase exposure to the assumed triggers of summer depression, such as heat and humidity.
If you or someone you know is struggling with summer depression, it is important to seek help from a medical professional. While there have not been clinical trials specifically testing treatments for summer depression, cooling off in air-conditioned places and taking cold showers have shown some promise in alleviating symptoms. Additionally, psychiatric medications and evidence-based psychotherapy, such as cognitive behavior therapy, may be effective in treating both major depression and seasonal depression.
Ultimately, recognizing and addressing summer depression is crucial for those affected by it. By raising awareness and conducting further research, we can better understand this condition and provide appropriate support and treatment for those who need it.