Feeling SAD in the sun?

Every winter, Ohioans prepare for the emotional weight of the long gray days — the “winter blues,” as some call it. For some, those winter blues can be a sign of seasonal affective disorder. A type of depression, SAD occurs each year at the same time, normally in the winter.

When spring arrives, bringing its burst of color and sunlight, those winter blues seem to literally melt away.

For some, though, the symptoms of SAD — the lack of energy and enthusiasm — don’t arrive every winter but every spring and summer, referred to as “reverse SAD.”

“Just as people who struggle with SAD in the winter months crave more sunshine, people with reverse SAD can become irritated, anxious and depressed,” says Julie Manuel, clinical program manager at Kettering Health Behavioral Medical Center.

Understanding reverse SAD

“The reality is, there is a small percentage of folks struggling with this disorder,” says Julie. “But for those folks, it is real, and the symptoms are real.”

Symptoms of reverse SAD that mimic winter-onset SAD include

■ Lethargy

■ Loss of appetite

■ Feelings of intense loneliness

Unique symptoms of reverse SAD can include

■ Agitation

■ Anxiety

■ Insomnia

Causes of reverse SAD

The main driver of reverse SAD is likely the increase in sunlight. “Reverse SAD is difficult to diagnose,” says Julie. “Most people find it hard to believe someone is depressed by more sunshine, warmth and extended daylight, but it can happen.”

The longer stretches of sunlight can affect the way their bodies produce melatonin and serotonin, leading to inconsistent sleep patterns.

Similar to how holiday stressors can worsen winter-onset SAD, spring and summer bring their own season-specific challenges that can compound depression-like symptoms.

■ Body image: With many social gatherings happening around pools and in the heat, feelings of shame about one’s body size and appearance can help convince them to stay isolated.

■ Finances: Vacations and increases in weekend travels can make it feel like paychecks thin out quicker, adding layers of stress.

■ Feelings of dysfunction: Feeling blue during the spring and summer just isn’t as accepted as during the winter. This lack of understanding can lead to greater experiences of isolation. And that compounds quickly into feeling unwanted or, worse, forgotten.

“Regardless if you struggle in the winter or summer months, there are professionals who will listen and help you find treatment options to get you back to life,” says Julie. “You deserve to feel your best every day; be an advocate for your health and reach out when you feel you may need assistance.”

Don’t go through depression alone. Visit ketteringhealth.org/services/behavioral-mental-health/ to find compassion and help.