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Some people experience depression only during the summer months. Here’s what to watch for.
When most people think of seasonal depression, they picture feeling down during the cold, gray and dark months of winter. But for some, symptoms of depression show up only in the summer. While summer seasonal depression, often referred to as summer seasonal affective disorder (SAD), is not as common as the condition that occurs during the winter, it’s just as real and equally hard to deal with.
What are the signs of summer seasonal depression?
Some symptoms of seasonal depression in the summer may be similar to what you would expect if you had seasonal depression in the winter, but others may look a little different. While winter seasonal depression is often characterized by sleeping too much or gaining weight, people with summer seasonal depression may experience just the opposite. They may have trouble sleeping or may unintentionally lose weight. Common symptoms of summer seasonal depression include:
Sleep difficulties or insomnia
Loss of appetite or unintentional weight loss
Feeling restless or anxious
Feeling hopeless or worthless
Being easily annoyed or angry
Difficulty focusing
Withdrawing from others
If symptoms last for weeks or interfere with your daily life, it could be a sign of depression. Summer seasonal depression tends to develop every year around the same time and then improves after the season is over.
Why do some people have depression only in the summer?
Experts aren’t exactly sure why some people experience depression during the summer, but here are a few possible reasons it may happen:
Longer daylight hours can throw off your body’s internal clock, which may mess with your sleep, mood and energy levels.
Heat and humidity may impact your mental health, especially if you're sensitive to the weather and can’t enjoy outdoor activities because of it.
You may feel pressure to be happy and social during the summer and this may take a toll on your mental health.
Concerns about body image may cause you to withdraw from others and skip activities during the summer.
Changes in routine, such as being on vacation or having kids that are out of school, can be disruptive and lead to depressive symptoms.
Who is most at risk of developing summer seasonal depression?
Seasonal depression can affect anyone, whether it happens in the summer or winter, but it’s more likely to occur in people who have:
A history of depression or bipolar disorder
Other mental health conditions, such as anxiety
A family history of mood disorders
High sensitivity to heat and light
What should you do if you think you have summer seasonal depression?
If you think you might be struggling with summer seasonal depression, talk to a doctor or mental health professional. You may need treatment, such as cognitive behavioral therapy and/or medications. These lifestyle habits may also help:
Stick to a regular sleep schedule
Use blackout curtains to manage light exposure
Stay cool with fans or air conditioning
Eat balanced meals and stay hydrated
Avoid alcohol and limit caffeine
Make time for relaxing activities, even indoors
Most importantly, be kind to yourself. Seasonal depression is not your fault, and with the right help, it can get better.
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Date Last Reviewed: June 20, 2025
Editorial Review: Andrea Cohen, Editorial Director, Baldwin Publishing, Inc. Contact Editor
Medical Review: Perry Pitkow, MD
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