We often hear people say, “I always feel so much better in the summer!” For many, increased sunlight boosts vitamin D levels, improves mood, and enhances mental health. But what if that’s not your story?
Spring and Summer SAD
While seasonal depression is often linked to fall and winter, some experience it in spring and summer—known as "reverse SAD" or "summer depression." Symptoms can include:
If better weather makes you anxious or irritable, you might be dealing with spring depression due to pressure to be more social and cheerful.
Seasonal Changes and Bipolar Disorder
People with bipolar disorder are at higher risk for seasonal affective disorder. Spring and summer can trigger mania or hypomania, increasing anxiety and irritability, while fall and winter can bring depression.
It’s Okay to Feel Different
Most experience symptoms in fall and winter that improve in spring, but reverse SAD means mood changes begin in spring and persist into summer. Remember, everyone reacts differently to seasonal changes, and it’s not your fault if you feel worse when others feel better.
Treatment Options – Start feeling like yourself again
At ANSR Clinics we have several treatments can help manage depression:
Understanding reverse SAD and recognizing its symptoms is the first step. If you think you might be affected, reach out for support and explore these promising treatments to manage your seasonal mood changes.