Summertime Sadness: When Depression Strikes in Warm Weather

Most people associate seasonal depression with winter's shorter, darker days. But here in Georgia, where summer brings intense heat and humidity, some people experience the opposite—depression that peaks during the warmest months. At Next Step Psychiatry in Lilburn, we help patients throughout Gwinnett County understand and manage summer-pattern seasonal affective disorder (SAD).

Can You Really Get Depressed in Summer?

Absolutely. While winter-pattern SAD is more common and often attributed to lack of sunlight, summer-pattern SAD is a recognized phenomenon. It causes persistent feelings of sadness and hopelessness that typically last 4-5 months during the warmer season.

Why Do People Get Sad During Summer?

Several factors can contribute to summertime depression, particularly in hot climates like Atlanta and Gwinnett County:

• Heat sensitivity: Some bodies and minds have difficulty coping with high temperatures
• Sleep disruption: Longer, brighter days and Georgia's summer heat can interfere with melatonin production and sleep quality
• Serotonin changes: Reduced melatonin can affect serotonin levels, impacting mood
• FOMO: Seeing others enjoying summer activities can trigger feelings of inadequacy or isolation
• Routine disruption: Changes in schedules during summer months can destabilize mood

Symptoms of Summer Depression

Watch for these signs if you suspect summer-pattern SAD:

• Decreased energy and motivation
• Difficulty making decisions
• Persistent feelings of sadness and hopelessness
• Increased irritability and agitation
• Loss of interest in activities you normally enjoy
• Trouble sleeping
• Thoughts of self-harm or suicide

Coping Strategies for Summertime Depression

Our team at Next Step Psychiatry recommends these approaches for managing summer SAD:

1. Maintain a Consistent Sleep Schedule

Georgia summers can make quality sleep challenging. Establish a healthy bedtime routine, put away screens an hour before bed, and keep your bedroom cool and dark. Going to bed and waking at consistent times helps regulate your body's internal clock.

2. Practice Mindfulness Meditation

Mindfulness helps you stay present rather than dwelling on distressing thoughts. Start with just a few minutes daily of focused breathing and non-judgmental awareness of your thoughts and feelings.

3. Stay Connected

Social support is crucial for mental health. Even when you don't feel like it, maintain connections with loved ones. Consider letting trusted friends or family know what you're experiencing so they can offer support.

4. Practice Breathing Exercises

Deep breathing activates your calming nervous system. Try pursed lip breathing: inhale through your nose for two seconds, purse your lips, and slowly exhale for four seconds.

5. Engage in Mood-Boosting Activities

Combat isolation by prioritizing activities that bring joy—even small ones. Explore air-conditioned venues in Gwinnett County, take early morning walks before the heat peaks, or try new indoor hobbies.

6. Prioritize Self-Care

Regular exercise, adequate sleep, gratitude practice, and personal hygiene routines all contribute to better mental health. Limiting social media can also help if it's contributing to negative feelings.

7. Work with a Mental Health Professional

Depression is a serious condition that benefits from professional treatment. Dr. Aneel Ursani and Fathima Chowdhury, PA-C can help develop a treatment plan that may include medication, therapy, or both.

If you or someone you know is experiencing thoughts of self-harm, call 911 or the National Suicide and Crisis Lifeline at 988 immediately.