Do you suffer from “reverse SAD”?

Today I want to discuss a condition I used to suffer from…

Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD).

For me, I would often feel down in the winter—when we face cool, dark days.

But did you know that this same phenomenon can affect people in the summer, too?

It’s called reverse SAD. And it’s more common than you think.

Here’s everything you need to know…

Not everything is sunshine and rainbows

Reverse SAD isn’t well-studied. But perhaps some of these statistics will change that…

Current data suggests up to 3 percent of the general population is impacted by winter SAD, whereas just 0.1 percent suffer from summer SAD.

But researchers are wondering if the incidence could be higher. Consider this…

Suicide rates actually jump in the warmer months. In fact, according to John Hopkins Medicine, in the Northern Hemisphere, more suicides occur in April, May, and June than in December.

Now, SAD patients typically feel a recurring seasonal pattern each year. And symptoms often last four to five months at a time.

Those who suffer from SAD may feel sad, “empty,” or anxious. They may lose interest in things they otherwise enjoy, experience fatigue, or have cognitive difficulties. Some report physical pain or digestive issues.

And sadly, thoughts of death or suicide—or exhibiting violent or aggressive behavior—can occur.

(While I never experienced the final symptoms listed above, I can relate to the others when I suffered from winter SAD.)

Sleeping and eating patterns might also be affected. It seems winter SAD might lead to oversleeping and overeating, whereas summer SAD might promote insomnia, decreased appetite, and weight loss.

Make yourself a priority

Even though I have suffered from SAD in the past, I never had any clue as to why. But researchers believe genetics may play a role.

See, certain genes can be more or less active during certain months. Plus, SAD is more common in those with a family history of depression or bipolar disorder.

Scientists are still postulating other potential root causes, like body image issues, lack of a predictable schedule, higher societal pressure, or being needed more by children or grandchildren.

And that makes sense. After all, when schedules get disrupted, that inevitably leads to less sleep, less exercise, and less attention to diet. This can all result in more inflammation and create an unhealthy, downward spiral that might impact every aspect of our lives.

Now, even though I personally can’t imagine ever feeling blue in the summer—it’s my absolute favorite time of year—I have to say, it must be difficult.

While everyone else appears to be enjoying the pool, lake, or ocean… playing beach volleyball or taking long, sunset strolls with a loved one… it’s true that expectations to have fun might be higher in the summer.

To combat summer SAD, try maintaining a regular sleep schedule, stay cool, exercise regularly, stick to a healthy diet, and don’t succumb to pressure to do things that you inherently know don’t bring you joy. (Maybe that even means saying “no” to a family vacation.)

I also encourage you to surround yourself with optimistic peers, if possible. (Positivity is often contagious… and lifechanging.)

Source:

“Summer seasonal depression is real and deadly.” MDLinx, 07/02/2024. (mdlinx.com/article/summer-seasonal-depression-is-real-and-deadly/4dOlBcflgbIP3C72xCyVD3)