Summer often evokes feelings of joy and freedom, but for the roughly 14.8 million American adults who experience depression, the sunny season can exacerbate symptoms of sadness, fatigue, irritability, and disinterest. As a leading dual diagnosis treatment center in Southern California, Evoke Wellness Miramar understands that summertime depression is real and treatable. This article will provide an overview of seasonal affective disorder, signs and symptoms, statistics, and most importantly, evidence-based treatment options, including:
- Cognitive behavioral therapy
- Medication management
- Lifestyle changes
- Support groups
- Residential and extended care programs
Call Evoke Wellness at Miramar today (833) 819-6066 or reach out online.
Introduction to Summertime Depression
While summer is often associated with warmth, sunshine and vacations, many individuals struggle with summertime depression.
Causes of Summer Blues
- Disrupted sleep patterns due to longer daylight hours
- Increased social pressures and expectations
- Body image issues from summer clothing
- Financial strain from vacation costs
Recognizing the Signs
The signs of summertime depression can include persistent sadness, fatigue, irritability and loss of interest in enjoyable activities. Seeking professional help is crucial to manage these symptoms effectively.
Treatment at Evoke Wellness
At Evoke Wellness, our comprehensive depression treatment program addresses summertime blues through evidence-based therapies like cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT). Our experienced clinicians customize treatment plans to meet each individual’s unique needs.
Signs and Symptoms of Summertime Depression
Physical Symptoms
- Fatigue or low energy
- Changes in appetite or weight
- Sleep disturbances
Emotional Signs
Feeling persistently sad, anxious or “empty” are common emotional indicators. Other signs include:
- Loss of interest in hobbies
- Feelings of hopelessness
- Irritability or restlessness
Behavioral Patterns
Watch for social withdrawal, neglecting responsibilities, and having trouble concentrating. Increased use of alcohol or drugs can also signal summer depression.
The symptoms may be easily dismissed as “summer blues.” However, if they last more than two weeks, it’s crucial to seek professional help. Depression is a treatable condition, but left unchecked, it can worsen over time.
Why Summertime Depression Occurs
Disrupted Routines
The relaxed summer schedule can disrupt regular routines, leading to a lack of structure and purpose – key risk factors for depression. When people have less to do, they may dwell on negative thoughts.
Body Image Issues
With summer comes increased focus on physical appearance and pressure to have a “beach body.” Poor body image and low self-esteem heighten vulnerability to mood issues.
Seasonal Effects
Some studies link summertime depression to seasonal changes in brain chemicals like serotonin. Longer daylight hours, heat, and humidity may negatively impact mood regulation for some.
Social Isolation
For those struggling with loneliness or lacking close relationships, the summer’s emphasis on social gatherings and activities can worsen feelings of isolation and depression.
Unrealistic Expectations
Media portrayal of summer as an endlessly happy, carefree time sets up unrealistic expectations. When reality doesn’t match the “perfect summer” ideal, disappointment and depressive symptoms can follow.
Who Summertime Depression Affects
The “summer blues” can impact anyone, regardless of age or background. However, certain groups may be more susceptible to summertime depression.
Those With Existing Mental Health Issues
Individuals already struggling with mental illnesses like depression, anxiety, or seasonal affective disorder (SAD) are at higher risk. The summer’s heat, longer days, and schedule disruptions can exacerbate symptoms.
Younger Demographics
Teenagers and young adults often experience heightened emotions, social pressures, and body image concerns during summer. These stressors, combined with hormonal changes, create vulnerability.
Caregivers and Parents
The added childcare demands of summer break can overwhelm parents and caregivers. Disrupted routines, less personal time, and increased expenses contribute to depression.
Sun-Sensitive Individuals
For those with sun sensitivities or conditions like lupus, the summer’s intense rays necessitate stricter sun precautions – potentially triggering isolation and depressive episodes.
Individuals With Trauma
The carefree, social nature of summer can resurface difficult memories or situations for trauma survivors, reactivating depression. Professional support is crucial.
Tips for Coping With Summertime Depression
Practice Self-Care
- Nurture your mind and body through relaxing activities, nutritious meals, and restful sleep. Prioritize self-compassion during this challenging time.
Stay Connected
- Though you may feel tempted to isolate yourself, maintain social ties. Lean on loved ones for support, or consider joining a support group.
Regulate Exposure to Heat
- Excessive heat can exacerbate depressive symptoms. Stay cool by seeking shade, using fans or air conditioning when possible.
Adjust Expectations
- Summertime sadness is real. Avoid self-criticism and celebrate small victories in managing your mood. Reaching out for professional help is a sign of strength, not weakness.
Depression Treatment Programs Can Help
Seeking professional help through a depression treatment program can be a turning point. Evoke Wellness at Miramar offers several specialized programs to address mental health concerns like depression.
Personalized Care
Our evidence-based programs provide personalized, comprehensive care tailored to your unique needs. Therapies may include:
- Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT)
- Dialectical behavior therapy (DBT)
- Mindfulness and holistic practices
Continuum of Care
We offer multiple levels of care intensity based on your situation:
- Residential treatment program
- Partial hospitalization program
- Intensive inpatient program
Our extended residential program allows you to reinforce coping skills over a longer period.
Dual Diagnosis Support
For those struggling with co-occurring substance use and mental health disorders, our dual diagnosis treatment integrates therapies to address both issues simultaneously.
No matter your challenges, Evoke’s compassionate team is here to guide your journey to healing.
Summertime Depression FAQs
Why do people get depressed in summer?
- Increased heat, humidity and sun exposure can disrupt sleep patterns and daily routines. Lack of sleep is strongly linked to depression and seasonal mood changes.
- For those with body image concerns, summer means more skin exposure which can trigger anxiety. Anxiety disorders frequently co-occur with depression.
- Expectations or pressure to be happy and social in the summer months can exacerbate feelings of isolation for those struggling with depression.
How common is summertime depression?
While winter blues are more widely known, around 10% of depression cases follow a summer pattern. Younger adults aged 18-35 seem especially vulnerable, with rates as high as 25% in some studies. The condition affects all genders relatively equally.
What are signs to watch for?
Symptoms like low motivation, fatigue, appetite changes, sleep disturbances, and feelings of sadness or emptiness that arise in the late spring or summer could indicate summertime depression. Behavior changes like social withdrawal, irritability and trouble concentrating may also occur.
Conclusion
As summer approaches, take steps to safeguard your mental health. Seek professional help if symptoms persist – depression is highly treatable. Consider an intensive program like those at Evoke Miramar, which incorporate therapy for depression, anxiety, trauma, dual diagnosis, and more. Their team can assess your needs and customize a residential or extended stay. You deserve to feel hopeful. This season can be a chance to heal, with the right support. 100 million Americans face depression each year – you aren’t alone. Together, we can shed the weight of depression’s darkness and step into the light.
Begin Your Journey with Evoke Wellness at Miramar
If you or a loved one is considering treatment, Evoke Wellness at Miramar invites you to contact us. Our compassionate team is ready to answer your questions, discuss your needs, and help you take the first steps toward recovery. In Miramar, you’ll find more than just a treatment program – you’ll discover a community dedicated to your wellness and success. Together, let’s embrace the journey to recovery and the promise of a new beginning. Call us at (833) 819-6066 today or reach out online.
