Written By: Rebecca Kangwa, LMHC, Founder

When people talk about feeling sad because of the seasons, they usually mean winter. But did you know some people feel sad in the summer too? This is called Summer Seasonal Affective Disorder or Summer SAD.

At The Gold Mind, we are NYC therapists who help other New Yorkers feel better. We want you to know it’s normal if you feel sad in the summer. You’re not alone!

What Is Summer Seasonal Affective Disorder?

Summer Seasonal Affective Disorder happens when people feel sad or upset during the summer months. Some people thrive in the warmer months while other feels worse. 

People with summer depression might:

• Have trouble sleeping at night
  
• Not feel hungry or lose weight
  
• Feel nervous, worried, or upset
  
• Get annoyed or angry easily
  
• Have trouble paying attention
  
• Want to stay away from friends and family
  
• Feel too hot or tired because of the heat and long days
  

Feeling sad in summer doesn’t mean something is wrong with you. It just means your body and brain react differently to the season.

Why Do People Get Summer Depression?

Doctors aren’t sure why some people get summer seasonal affective disorder, but there are a few reasons it might happen:

• Too Much Sunlight – Longer days can mess up your sleep.
  
• Heat and Humidity – Hot weather can make people feel tired or stressed.
  
• Changes in Routines – Summer can mess up your normal daily schedule.
  
• Body Image Worries – Wearing summer clothes can make people feel nervous about how they look.
  
• Social Pressure – People feel like they should be having fun in summer, and feel bad if they’re not.
  

As NYC therapists, we talk to many people who are surprised to feel sad when the sun is shining.

How Can You Feel Better?

If you have summer depression in NYC, here are some ways to help yourself feel better:

• Keep a regular sleep schedule, even when the sun stays out longer.
  
• Stay cool and take breaks inside if it’s too hot.
  
• Try to keep your daily routine, like eating meals at the same time.
  
• Drink water and eat enough food, even if you’re not very hungry.
  
• Talk to someone you trust, like a friend, family member, or therapist.
  
• Be kind to yourself. It’s okay to feel sad, even in summer.
  

You’re Not Alone

If you think you might have summer seasonal affective disorder in NYC, The Gold Mind is here to help. Talking to an NYC therapist can help you feel better and learn new ways to cope.

Do you want help feeling better this summer? Contact our NYC therapists at The Gold Mind today. We’re here for you in every season.