Reverse Seasonal Affective Disorder: When Summer Triggers Depression

Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) is often discussed in terms of winter depression, but did you know that some people experience SAD in summer? This condition is known as Reverse SAD or Summer SAD, and it involves feeling happier during the winter months than during the summer. Let's delve deeper into this lesser-known form of SAD and explore its symptoms and coping strategies.

Understanding Reverse SAD

Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) is a type of depression that occurs due to changes in seasons, typically in winter, leading to a lack of sunlight and colder temperatures. However, it is less commonly known that summer can also trigger feelings of sadness, anxiety, and depression in some individuals. This phenomenon is referred to as Reverse SAD or Summer SAD.

Symptoms of Reverse SAD

Unlike winter SAD, which often causes oversleeping and overeating, summer SAD is characterized by the opposite symptoms: insomnia and lower appetite. Those who suffer from Reverse SAD often experience:

Feelings of restlessness and agitation Difficulty sleeping Loss of appetite and weight loss Increased irritability and anxiety Intense desire to stay indoors to avoid sunlight Heightened sensitivity to noise and light

While the exact cause of Reverse SAD is not fully understood, many experts believe it is related to the intensity of sunlight and the associated increase in body temperature and changes in circadian rhythms.

Personal Experiences and Coping Strategies

Many individuals who suffer from Reverse SAD share similar experiences. Here are a few personal anecdotes:

"I am exactly the same. This month has not been too bad as it has been below average temperature with some rain and cloud. June, on the other hand, was hot and sunny, and I was feeling really low. The relentless brightness and heat seemed to upset me more than the actual temperature."

"If you want, I can offer ways to cope or just be a friendly ear. This time of year, we self-isolate to stay out of the heat and humidity. You are not alone in this!"

...

Characteristics of Summer SAD

It's actually a more rare form of SAD. Unlike winter SAD, where people tend to oversleep and overeat, summer SAD people suffer from insomnia and lowered appetite. This can make the summer months particularly challenging, especially for those who enjoy outdoor activities and social gatherings. Some people actually love the summer and cope with the winter SAD by spending time in the winter environment when it is available.

"I know only a small few who hate summer and rather spend time in the winter environment. I love the summer and suffered terribly with winter SAD. The pros of the summer outweigh the cons. I can respectfully disagree with those who say..."

For those who experience Reverse SAD, the thought of summer can be almost as daunting as the winter.

Coping with Reverse SAD

There are several strategies that can help manage the symptoms of Reverse SAD:

Light Therapy: Using a light box to increase exposure to bright, artificial light can help regulate your body's internal clock and reduce symptoms of reverse SAD. Physical Activity: Regular exercise can help reduce stress, improve mood, and promote better sleep patterns. Behavioral Techniques: Techniques such as mindfulness or cognitive-behavioral therapy can help manage negative thoughts and behaviors. Proper Sleep Hygiene: Establishing a consistent sleep schedule and creating a soothing bedtime routine can improve sleep quality. Nutrition: Eating a balanced diet and staying hydrated can help manage hunger and energy levels.

It's important to consult with a healthcare professional to determine the most suitable coping strategies for your specific needs.

Conclusion

Reverse SAD is a genuine form of Seasonal Affective Disorder that affects individuals in a way that is quite different from the more commonly discussed winter SAD. As we transition through the seasons, it's important to recognize the unique challenges that each season presents and seek the appropriate support and resources to manage them.