How to Deal with the Summertime Blues

Most people think that Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) causes symptoms of depression only in the winter because of the colder weather and shorter days. However, about ten percent of those who suffer from SAD experience depression in the summer. This type of depression is particularly hard because you are supposed to feel happy and carefree in the summer. This pressure to be happy causes you to believe that everyone around you is having a wonderful time which intensifies your misery. Specific symptoms of summer Seasonal Affective Disorder include: loss of appetite, insomnia and generalized anxiety. Possible triggers and solutions *There is less sleep. In order to feel relaxed and balanced during the day, you need to sleep at night. The longer days give way to more activity and many people don’t get enough sleep. An extreme example is Greenland. Greenland has one of the highest suicide rates in the world which peaks in the long summer days. Current theory claims it is the lack of sleep and an imbalance in serotonin which is released in greater amounts in bright light. This disrupts the necessary sleep cycle. Create sleep rituals to wind down before bedtime. * The heat and humidity affect many people adversely. This summer don't plan to beat the heat; rather try to get along with nautre. Use your mind to shape your reality with cool, refreshing visualizations. Make sure to cool off periodically with air conditioning. If you can’t afford it, visit air-conditioned public buildings to get a break. Drink cool liquids to keep hydrated. Enjoy summer fruit. Periodically, wash your face with cold water and use a cool cloth on your neck. * Unfortunately, many people don’t exercise in summer because of the heat. However, if you want to improve your mood, it’s as simple as putting on your sneakers and walking out the door. Exercise early in the morning or in the evening when it is cooler. Put on your headphones to listen to upbeat music while you walk for greater stress relief synergy. Don’t wait until autumn to feel better. If simple remedies don’t work, see your doctor. Stress management means preparing for stressors. If summertime is stressful for you, like wearing a bathing suit when you feel unattractive, or worrying about taking a vacation from your job during this recession, find practical solutions by planning ahead. Get a new more flattering bathing suit and take long weekends instead of a solid block of time.