Aanchal Mishra
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Written By: Aanchal Mishra | Updated : September 2, 2024 7:51 PM IST
Although the summer comes with bright days and symphony of sun rays, it's possible for some people to feel the blues. Slipping into depression in the winters is a common phenomenon. However, feeling low and depressed in summer is less common. But it does happen because people often do not realise that the long sunny days of summer can end with the coming of winters and this makes them sad. This is called Summertime SAD. It is a seasonal affective disorder affecting people in the summers.
Summertime SAD or summer depression is more common in regions like India which is closer to the equator. Extreme heat can trigger depressive behaviors in some people. For this reason, it is important to prioritize your mental health in the long sunny days to avoid feeling that summertime sadness.
Potential symptoms of summertime depression are:
Hot weather and extreme heat can impact your mental health in many ways. It can alter your sleep schedules, trigger anxiety and can also disrupt your focus. Let's explore some cool and jolly ways to keep summertime sadness away.
Insufficient water intake can lead to low levels of oxygen in the body, which can disbalance the happy hormones like serotonin, dopamine and endorphins. A largescale study conducted by the National Institutes of Health points out the positive outcomes of drinking water in treating depression. In summer, the body needs more water, given the heat. So, make sure you drink a minimum of 2 liters of water a day to keep the summertime SAD at bay.
Yoga is a proven depression coping mechanism. Millions of people have benefitted from yoga in treating their mental health issues. MRI studies have shown that people who regularly practice yoga have better mental and cognitive health than those who do not practice yoga. You can try yoga asanas like Cobra pose, Boat pose, Cow pose along with breathing exercises like anulom vilom and Pranayama.
Practicing relaxation techniques can prove to be very beneficial when struggling with summer depression. Listening to music is one of them. You can try listening to healing music or soothing songs to ease your anxiety. Other relaxation techniques to feel better include aromatherapy, body massage, long baths and deep breathing. You can also try doing the things you love. It could be painting, doodling, brisk walking, playing with your pets or spending time with your loved ones.
Hot weather can make you feel sluggish and groggy. The heat can also leave you feeling agitated or easily irritated over petty things. So, try to avoid going out in the sun, especially between 11 am to 4 pm. Stay cool and hydrated during the day hours. Protect your body from the harsh sun rays using an umbrella or a hat.
Mental counselling is a very efficient coping mechanism. Talking to a mental health specialist might work for you. It helps you track your emotions and moods. Therapy also helps reduce anxiety and improves communication. A therapy session also makes us aware of our thought process. So don't shy away from reaching out to a therapist. Go and explore!
Feeling sad at any time of the year is normal. However, if the sadness stays for longer period, you must consult with a mental health specialist. Meanwhile, take care of your mental health amid the hot weather and say ta-ta to summertime depression.
