For some people, however, it’s the hot summer months that trigger symptoms of seasonal affective disorder.
Seasonal affective disorder (SAD)is not considered a specific diagnosis in the current DSM-5.
If you tend to feel depressed during the summer, talk to your doctor or therapist.
Verywell / Emily Roberts
They can recommend treatments such as medications and therapy.
Usually, these symptoms begin in the late fall and continue until spring or summer.
Why Do People Get Summertime Depression?
There have been many theories as to why people experience depression during the summer months.
However, the research is limited, and most of the studies reference fall and winter SAD.
Since this is a recurring seasonal pattern, symptoms must be present for at least the last two years.
Summertime Depression Treatment
The presence of a seasonal depressive disorder such as summertime depression can be debilitating.
Seek Professional Help
Psychotherapy is highly recommended to treat depressive disorders, including summertime depression.
Bupropion has an FDA indication specifically for the treatment of SAD.
Most medications take some time before you feel relief from depressive symptoms.
Your medical provider may need to adjust dosage or change medications during treatment.
Beyond that, there are lifestyle modifications that may help ease the symptoms andboost your mood.
This information may be helpful when seeking a diagnosis.
It also allows you to create a plan for managing the symptoms.
It also helps your doctor make a proper diagnosis.
Working together, you’re free to create a treatment plan that addresses your needs.
For more mental health resources, see ourNational Helpline Database.
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National Institute of Mental Health.Seasonal affective disorder.
National Alliance on Mental Illness.Major depressive disorder with a seasonal pattern.
U.S. Food and Drug Administration.Highlights of prescribing information: Wellbutrin XL.
Blake H. Physical activity and exercise in the treatment of depression.Frontiers in Psychiatry.
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