Summer SAD: Causes & Symptoms

Seasonal affective disorder (SAD) is a type of depression triggered by seasonal changes, typically occurring with the onset of autumn. It affects around 1% to 2% of the population, particularly women and young individuals, while a milder form of winter blues can impact approximately 10% to 20% of people.

Although winter is commonly associated with SAD, certain individuals face greater challenges during warmer weather.

There is a less common variant of SAD known as "summer depression," which emerges in late spring or early summer and persists until fall.

Experts explore various specific theories to elucidate the causes of summer depression. A prominent theory posits that excessive exposure to sunlight during the summer months disrupts the body's internal clock or circadian rhythm, leading to reduced levels of melatonin. Consequently, individuals with summer SAD may experience insomnia or other sleep disturbances.

Some studies have indicated a potential link between summer SAD and higher temperatures and humidity.

Individuals grappling with summer SAD may exhibit the following symptoms:

~Agitation and restlessness.
~Anxiety.
~Decreased appetite and weight loss.
~Episodes of violent behavior.
~Trouble sleeping (insomnia).
Summer SAD: Causes & Symptoms

What is summer depression?

In the United States, summer depression is only about one fifth to one quarter as common as SAD (seasonal affective disorder).

Individuals with summer depression present a picture opposite to that of patients with winter depression.

Rather than an anergic, hyperphagic, hypersomnic, depressive picture, patients with summer depression presented with an agitated, hypophagic, hyposomnic, depressive clinical picture.

The patient will probably lose his appetite and some weight, have trouble sleeping, and feel anxious.

In addition, people with summer SAD report more suicidal ideas than their winter counterparts and may be at greater risk for harming themselves or taking their own lives.

Heat may be the triggering environmental factor in summer depression.
What is summer depression?