Burned Out in Arizona’s Summer? It Could Be SAD

It's easy to understand Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) if you spend the winter in a state colder than Arizona. When you deal with an endless stretch of grey skies and cold weather that drives you indoors, feeling sad from SAD seems to be an understandable reaction.

By comparison, Arizona experiences a handful of overcast, chilly days that offset long stretches of blue skies and sunny weather. I mean, people write songs about this level of joy, right?

Believe it or not, we may suffer from SAD more than anyone else, only we're susceptible in a different season

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What is Summer Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD)?

Summer Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) is a form of depression that happens during the warm to hot months. Symptoms typically show up anywhere from late spring to early fall.

When we think of SAD, it's usually associated with the winter months when it's cold and gloomy, and we're stuck inside buildings. Summer-pattern SAD has some things in common with Winter SAD.

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Particularly in Arizona, temperatures can get so hot that the only solution is to stay inside, out of the scorching sun. We become "shut in" the same way we become isolated in our homes during the cold winter months. This isolation can take a toll on our mental health.

Who is Likely to Suffer from Summer SAD?

Women are more likely than men to experience Summer SAD, but when men suffer from the condition, they often report more severe symptoms.

If you or someone in your family has a history of mood disorders, you could be at a higher risk of SAD, and if you live in Arizona's hot climate, you may experience more intense symptoms due to extreme heat and prolonged sunlight.

Longer days and more sunlight can also interfere with melatonin production and cause sleep disruptions.

What Makes Summer SAD Symptoms Worse?

• Intense heat and prolonged sunlight.
• Sleep disruptions.
• Extreme temperatures lead to staying indoors and social isolation.
• Irritability and fatigue that's made worse by high temperatures.

Symptoms of Summer SAD

Symptoms of Summer SAD can be slightly different than the Winter variety. Here are some things to look for:

• Anxiety and restlessness.
• Insomnia and difficulty sleeping.
• Loss of appetite and weight loss/gain.
• Irritability and mood swings.
• Headaches or migraines.
• Lack of motivation to engage in activities.

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How to Combat Summer SAD

If you think you or someone close to you is suffering from Summer SAD, here are some things you can do:

• Keep Your Environment Cool: Stay indoors during peak heat hours and use air conditioning or fans to keep cool.
• Stick to a Sleep Routine: With the extra sunlight, try blocking it with blackout curtains and avoid excessive exposure to evening sunlight.
• Stay Hydrated and Eat Well: Fruits and veggies are typically in season over the summer months, so try to clean up your diet a little. Good nutrition and ample hydration can help regulate mood.
• Lean Into INDOOR Activities: Join a gym, visit museums, or participate in social events indoors.
• Seek Professional Help: You don't need to suffer in silence. If you can't shake your Summer SAD, talk to a mental health professional.

You're not imagining the symptoms, and you're not alone. Summer SAD is a legitimate condition, and small adjustments can make a significant difference.

Sources: Psychology Today | Healthline | Cleveland Clinic | Cornerstone Healing Center