For many people, summer brings a sense of lightness—longer days, vacations, and time outdoors. But for others, the season brings a surprising weight. As therapists, we often see clients struggle during the warmer months with feelings of sadness, irritability, and anxiety that seem to contradict the world’s “sunshine and smiles” narrative. This phenomenon is known as summer-onset Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD)—and yes, it’s real.
What Is Summer Depression?
Seasonal Affective Disorder is typically associated with the winter months, but a lesser-known variant occurs in the summer. While winter SAD is linked to a lack of sunlight, summer SAD may be triggered by excess heat, disrupted routines, and changes in social expectations.
Symptoms of summer depression can include:
- Insomnia or disrupted sleep
- Loss of appetite
- Anxiety or restlessness
- Feelings of sadness or hopelessness
- Isolation or withdrawal from activities
- Increased irritability
These symptoms often sneak up on individuals, especially when they feel out of sync with those around them who seem to be thriving during the season.
Why Does Summer Depression Happen?
The causes of summer SAD are complex and vary from person to person. Some common contributing factors include:
1. Disrupted Routine:
Summer can throw off regular schedules. Kids are out of school, work may slow down or become unpredictable, and travel can disrupt sleep and eating habits. For those who thrive on consistency, this can feel destabilizing.
2. Heat and Humidity:
Excessive heat can affect sleep quality and energy levels. People who are sensitive to temperature changes may feel trapped indoors or become more irritable.
3. Body Image Pressures:
Summer brings more exposure to societal body standards, especially with swimwear and outdoor activities. For some, this can trigger anxiety or worsen self-esteem issues.
4. Social Pressure:
There’s an expectation that summer should be fun and full of social events. Those who don’t feel up to it may experience guilt or shame, which deepens feelings of isolation.
You’re Not Alone—and You’re Not Broken
If you find yourself dreading summer instead of celebrating it, know that you are not alone. Summer SAD affects thousands of people, and there is no shame in feeling “off” during a season that’s supposedly full of joy.
Recognizing your experience is valid is the first step toward healing. It’s okay if your reality doesn’t match the highlight reels on social media. Mental health doesn’t follow a calendar—and neither should your self-worth.
Seeking Support Can Help
If you’re noticing persistent changes in your mood or energy during the summer months, reaching out to a therapist can make a difference. Therapy can help you explore patterns, understand triggers, and develop coping tools tailored to your needs. In some cases, medication or lifestyle changes—like cooling strategies or mindfulness practices—can also provide relief.
At Collective Counseling Solutions, we would love to help you find a therapist in your area who could help you on the road to recovery. Contact us today to get started.
