Can You Have Seasonal Depression in the Summer? Understanding Spring and Summer Seasonal Affective Disorder

The term SAD is an acronym for Seasonal Affective Disorder.

SAD is a condition where a person experiences depression that coincides with seasonal changes, most commonly during the shift from fall into winter. As we dive deeper into March, we approach the spring season, which for some means that they are nearing the end of their experience of SAD. For others, this actually could mean the beginning of SAD. While SAD is most common in the fall and winter, some people may experience SAD in the spring and summer as well. With that, some of the commonly seen symptoms between these two presentations are slightly different:

Fall/Winter

• Oversleeping

• Appetite Changes

• Weight Gain

• Fatigue/Low Energy

Spring/Summer

• Insomnia

• Poor Appetite

• Weight Loss

• Anxiety, Irritability or Agitation

Summertime Seasonal Affective Disorder

People who experience SAD in the Spring and Summer may not know what they are experiencing. While this form of the condition is often overlooked, there are a lot of factors to the summer season that can contribute to this form of distress. With summer comes longer days, change of routine for many people in school or from vacations, and more present body image due to the types of clothes we often have to wear in summer. With that, there is a lot to juggle which can increase experiences of depression. 

Supportive coping strategies for Seasonal Affective Disorder

Like its wintertime counterpart, there are some things we can do to help relieve the symptoms of summertime SAD. A big one is creating routine. For many, the increased difficulty during this season is not as much with the temperature as it is with the change in routine. By creating a routine you can follow consistently during these summer months, there can become a sense of stability that can help to alleviate the depression. The most important routines to create during this time are a sleep routine and consistent food schedules to ensure that your health is taken care of. 

Additionally, if you struggle with the heat of the summertime, it is good to try and plan outdoor activities in the early morning or at night when the heat of day is not at its peak. If the mornings or evenings are still too hot, it can be good to spend time inside with AC doing things you enjoy, whether it’s art at home, or taking some time to go to a gym. Another important aspect to take care of is your social life. It is a good idea to plan times with your friends and family. People who are experiencing any form of SAD can experience isolation, so planning times to ensure you spend time with others can be good for your mental health and give you a good support system during these harder months. 

Professional Help for Seasonal Affective Disorder

If you think that you may experience SAD during any season, please reach out to your mental health care provider as we can specialize your care plan to fit your needs during these seasonal changes. While Spring and Summer SAD is not as commonly talked about, it is still impactful. Now may be a great time to start that conversation with your therapist.

Ellie Staples

Ellie is an undergraduate intern for Flourish Counseling & Wellness. She is currently a fourth-year student at Colorado State University, majoring in psychology with a concentration in clinical counseling. 

Ellie hopes to continue her education in graduate school this fall with a goal of becoming a licensed therapist working with children and adolescents. 

Remington is a 2.5 year old medical alert service dog. He has been doing service work for the last year and a half, and he hopes to one day to add therapy dog to his list of skills.