Seasonal Affective Disorder: Not Just for Winter, Apparently

SAD in the Sun? Yep, It’s a Thing.

Let’s be honest: summer gets way too much hype. We’re bombarded with messages that say "It’s the best season ever!" — full of sunshine, beach days, rooftop cocktails, and Instagram-worthy adventures. But what if, instead of feeling carefree and golden, you’re cranky, tired, emotionally fried, and wondering why your mental health packed its bags and left?

Welcome to summer depression. Yes, it’s real. And NO, you’re not weird.

What Is SAD (Seasonal Affective Disorder)?

Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) is when your brain decides it’s emotionally allergic to certain times of year. In winter, it’s like: 'no sun? no serotonin!' In summer, it's more like: 'too much sun? still no serotonin, but now I’m sweaty and confused about it.' Basically, it’s your mental health ghosting you seasonally, just to keep things spicy.

Wait, Isn’t SAD for Winter?

Surprise! Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) isn’t just about dreary skies and fuzzy blankets. There’s a lesser-known sibling called summer-pattern SAD, and while it doesn’t wear a parka, it definitely messes with your mood. So while your friends are out living their “Hot Girl Summer,” you’re inside trying not to melt—emotionally and physically.

Signs You Might Be Dealing with Summer SAD:

Here’s what it can look like:

• Can’t sleep, even though you’re exhausted (why does the sun set at 9 p.m.??)

• You’d rather ghost every BBQ invite than put on real pants

• You’re anxious, irritable, and not sure if it’s the heat or your brain

• Your appetite vanished like your will to go outside

• You’re asking yourself: “Is sweating a personality trait now?”

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Sound familiar? You’re not lazy, antisocial, or ungrateful—you’re just human. With a nervous system that doesn’t love blazing heat and endless social obligations.

So, What Causes Summer SAD?

We aren’t totally sure, but possible causes include:

• Too. Much. Sunlight. → messes with your sleep

• Heat + humidity → makes your body and brain revolt

• Social pressure → to be happy, tan, and constantly “living your best life”

• Body image stress → swimsuits, shorts, and self-comparison—no thanks

• Chaotic schedules → vacations, kids home, no routine = emotional chaos

  
  

Basically, if your body’s screaming “hibernate” while the world screams “be happy!”, your brain might be stuck in a weird summer funk.

How to Deal (Without Moving to the Arctic):

1. Embrace the art of saying “Nope.”You’re allowed to skip the bonfire. Or the group hike. Or that “fun” thing that secretly drains your soul. Protect your energy like it’s SPF 100.

2. Create a cool-down cave.Invest in blackout curtains. Crank the fan. Pretend you’re a vampire if you need to. Your mental health deserves a chill zone.

3. Stick to a routine-ish.Summer’s chaos can throw you off. Try keeping a loose schedule for meals, sleep, and screen time. Bonus points for naps.

4. Move... but not too hard.Gentle movement helps (no, doomscrolling doesn’t count). Early morning walks, stretching, or swimming are your new BFFs.

5. Eat like a happy lizard.Hydrate, snack on fruit, and give yourself grace if your usual meals feel “meh.” Tiny tacos count.

6. Talk to someone who gets it.And no, not just your dog. A therapist can help you figure out what’s really going on beneath the sunscreen.

Real Talk: It’s Okay if Summer Isn’t Your Season

If you’re not living for beach days and sunburns, that doesn’t mean something’s wrong with you. It means you’re human—with real emotions, real limits, and possibly a strong preference for fall.

At B&B Therapy, we see you. We’ve got the tools, humor, and compassion to help you feel like yourself again—even if that “self” is currently wrapped in an ice pack, wearing sweatpants.