With the scorching sun and unbearable heat that comes in the months of April and May, the children's vacation season also begins. We think that everyone should be happy and have fun during this time. But while everyone is on trips, celebrating New Year's Eve, and being happy, are you the only one who feels very sad, lonely, and doesn't feel like doing anything? If you think, "Why is this happening to me alone?", this story is for you. Today we are talking about " Summer Depression", which many people don't know about, but affects some people.
Why do I feel sad in this hot weather?
For some, there are biological reasons for depression during this hot season. For others, the special stresses that come with this season add up to bring sadness to the mind. Let's see what are the main reasons that affect this.
| Reason | How It Affects You |
|---|---|
| Summertime SAD | You may have heard of Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) . It usually occurs during cold, dark seasons. But for some people, it can be the other way around. That is, depression occurs during hot, sunny seasons. This condition is more common in countries close to the equator, like Sri Lanka. The longer the day, the higher the temperature, and the higher the humidity. The main symptoms are loss of appetite, insomnia, weight loss, and anxiety. |
| Disrupted Routine | If you've ever had depression, you probably know how important it is to maintain a regular routine. But things like the holidays, kids' school holidays, and trips can throw our routines completely out of whack. This can be a lot of stress. If you have kids, you have to figure out how to keep them occupied all day long. All of this can be overwhelming. |
| Body Image Issues | When the heat makes us wear less clothes, many people feel ashamed and uncomfortable about their bodies. They don't feel like wearing shorts or a T-shirt, going to the beach, or going to a pool. Because of this, some people are even tempted to avoid socializing and gatherings with friends. |
| Financial Worries | Expenses are high during this time. Buying gifts for the new year, going to the village, going on a trip, giving extra classes to the children... all of these things cost money. This financial pressure can also be a cause for sadness. Some people may also have fears like, "Will I have a job when I go on a trip?" |
| The Heat | Some people love the harsh sun and heat, but for others, it's unbearable. Not going outside because of the heat, staying in an AC room all day, skipping the evening walk, and buying food from the store because you're too lazy to cook... These things can make you feel even more lonely and depressed. |
What can be done to get out of this situation?
Okay, now we know the reasons. So what can we do to change this summer and reduce the sadness we feel? Here are some tips that might help you.
1. Seek medical advice
This is the most important thing. If you think you have symptoms of depression, don't wait until the time of year to see if it's time for you to seek help . See your family doctor . He or she can refer you to a specialist, such as a psychiatrist. Depression is not a simple thing. Don't just say, "It'll be over in a few days." Sometimes, what starts out as a temporary condition can develop into a major depression later on. So, there's no need to suffer through these few months.
2. Plan ahead
One of the advantages of Summer Depression is that we know when it's coming. So, while you're well before April, think about the things that will be difficult for you during the summer. What are you doing for the kids' vacation? What's the best way to take a vacation? When you plan these things in advance, you'll feel more in control.
3. Sleep well.
Holidays, late-night parties, and all that can make it difficult to sleep at night. But remember, lack of sleep can lead to depression . So, no matter how busy you are, try to get to bed on time.
4. Don't skip exercise.
Studies have shown that exercise can help control depression. If the heat makes it difficult to do your usual exercise routine, find other ways to do it. Exercise early in the morning or late at night. Start something you can do at home. If you can't afford to pay for a year at a gym, go for just two or three months.
"The biggest cause of our suffering is the gap between where we are and where we think we should be."
5. Don't blame yourself.
The hardest part about Summer Depression is that you feel alone. Everyone else seems to be happy. Don't think, "Why is this happening to me? What's wrong with me?" Don't compare yourself to others. There's no rule that says you have to be happy just because it's June on the calendar. Instead, figure out what's causing your sadness and work to overcome it.
6. Plan your vacation properly
Before planning your annual vacation, ask yourself: "Is this something I really want? Or is it something I'm doing to please a relative? Will this make me happy? Or will it just add more stress to my finances?" You might be better off taking a few short vacations with a couple of days added to the weekend rather than a full week.
7. If you are taking medication, talk to your doctor.
If you are already taking medication for depression and your symptoms worsen during the hot weather each year, talk to your doctor about this. He or she may be able to adjust your dosage slightly during the hot weather and then reduce it back to the previous dosage. This can be a big help. Never change your medication at will.
Take-Home Message
- Summer Depression is a real, accepted medical condition. It's not something you've imagined.
- Don't feel guilty about not being as happy as everyone else during the hot weather. It's normal.
- Obvious reasons like changes in daily routine, extreme heat, and financial problems affect this.
- If you find it difficult to cope with this on your own, don't hesitate to ask your doctor for help .
- Small things like planning ahead, getting enough sleep, and exercising can make a big difference.
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