Your Student Life: Summertime Sadness

June 11, 2024

When we think about Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) we often associate it with winter. The shorter days and the gray skies with frequent clouds can bring us down. But this time of year can also impact people.

Did you know that for some individuals struggling with mental health conditions, spring and summer can be associated with an increase in symptoms? While many associate the warm weather and long days with improved mood and energy, people struggling with summer-onset SAD may find symptom management more difficult during this time of year.

Summer-onset SAD tends to present differently than in the winter, with tendency toward decreased sleep and appetite and increased anxiety. For people living with bipolar disorder, this time of year is associated with increased risk of manic episodes. Signs of a manic episode often include changes in behavior, significantly increased energy, impulsivity, and sometimes disconnection from reality through hallucinations or delusions.

Summer break can also be challenging for students who struggle with family relationships or find that they thrive best with the structure of the autumn and spring semesters.

As head through summer, if you’re noticing concerns about your emotional wellness, you can reach out to Counseling and Consultation service to talk to a counselor. For immediate safety concerns, please visit the nearest emergency room or call 9-1-1.

 

Counseling and Consultation Service
Office of Student Life