Summer is here but not everyone is excited about it — specifically those dealing with Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD).
Typically, SAD is associated with the winter blues because people can get depressed or upset because of shorter and gloomier days. But for that summer-onset SAD, the sun is part of the problem and can even lead to insomnia in some cases.
According to the Mayo Clinic, some other symptoms include poor appetite and weight loss.
Additionally, the longer summer days bring scorching hot temperatures. That can lead to getting easily agitated with tempers flaring; it can also bring up your anxiety.
Here are some recommended ways to treat SAD:
- If you're dealing with insomnia because of the longer daylight hours, spend more time in darker rooms. Invest in blackout curtains so you can regulate your internal clock so you get enough sleep.
- If the hot temperatures have you irritable, find activities to do where there's plenty of air conditioning (like going to the movies).
- Seek help if none of these are working. A professional can help you find better ways to cope. A doctor may even prescribe anti-depressants to help those dealing with SAD get through the seasons.
People who have a history of depression or bipolar disorder are more prone to get SAD. And women, in general, are more affected than men. However, men do report more severe symptoms of the disorder.
Below are additional statistics on SAD courtesy of the Tucson chapter of Depression and Bipolar Support Alliance.
