Dealing with Post-Summer Depression
As the warmer months of summer wind down, you may be affected by seasonal affective disorder (SAD). If it’s still warm and sunny outside yet you are feeling depressed, you may be facing post-summer depression.
The onset of a depressive disorder can occur at any point throughout the year, depending on the individual. Some people love wintertime and its busyness and aesthetics, while others are genuinely only happy during the sunny freedom of summertime. When these seasons of happiness and fulfillment end, it can be difficult for a person with SAD.
Don’t just brush off this yearly feeling by telling yourself it’s simply a case of the “winter blues” or a seasonal funk you have to tough out on your own. Take positive steps to keep your mood and motivation steady throughout the year.
What Are Some Positive Steps I Can Take To Manage And Overcome Seasonal Affective Disorder?
Let’s talk about some ways you can learn to manage post-summer depression or seasonal affective disorder.
- Be Self-Aware. You might be feeling anxious because you dread the oncoming colder months or because summer is a time for vacation and leisure. Whatever the reason, what you’re feeling is valid and requires attention before you become overwhelmed by the weight of depression. Be honest with yourself and explore why you might feel depressed as your summer comes to a close.
- Stay Connected. Social contact is essential for your mental health year-round, and loneliness can feed on itself and create a cycle that is hard to break. Isolating yourself can further amplify negative thoughts and behaviors. Maintaining contact with family, friends, peers, and professionals is vital for your health and recovery. Social interactions keep you accountable and consistent. Share your feelings with others. Sometimes talking about positive things such as books, cooking, gardening, or movies can elevate your mood; you aren’t required to talk about your feelings. Make it a point to stay connected to those in your life whom you love and who love you.
- Ask For Help. It is important to recognize when what you are doing might not be enough, but it can also be challenging to know when it is time to seek help. One way to determine if you need help is knowing that doing a specific activity will help you feel better but you’re just not motivated to do it. That’s a sign that it may be time to talk with a professional.
- Take Action. Depression should be addressed as soon as you feel its weight. Take action immediately. When you take action and work on eradicating negative thoughts and behaviors, you will achieve more confidence and resiliency to handle them when they arise.
How Can John Nichols Psychotherapy Help Me Manage Post-Summer Depression?
If you need professional help managing post-summer depression, I’m here to support you and provide a safe space. With me:
- You can feel safe sharing your story
- Discover strategies for growth
- Learn to live successfully and happily on your own
Here at John Nichols Psychotherapy, I offer individual, couples, and teen therapy. Please find out more about me and my practice here. Book a consultation today!
Look at some FAQs to help you understand how the psychotherapy process works.