As the UK experiences one of its hottest Junes on record, with temperatures reaching close to 40°C, Google searches for 'seasonal affective disorder' have surged by 285% in the past 24 hours. This spike in public concern has prompted health experts to warn about the impact of extreme heat on mental health, specifically a condition known as 'summer SAD.'
What Is Summer SAD?
Seasonal affective disorder (SAD) is a form of depression that typically occurs during winter, but for some individuals, symptoms manifest in summer. According to the NHS, SAD is a type of depression that follows a seasonal pattern. While winter SAD is more common, approximately 10% of people with seasonal mood disorders experience summer SAD. Dr Corné Hurter, Medical Director for Services and Delivery at AXA Health insurance, explained that prolonged hot weather can disrupt sleep, increase physical stress, and interfere with daily routines, contributing to summer SAD symptoms.
Key Symptoms of Summer SAD
Dr Hurter identified three primary symptoms to watch for during hot weather:
- Heightened emotions: Individuals may feel more tearful, irritable, anxious, or angry than usual. Their thoughts and language can become more negative, reflecting feelings of despair, worthlessness, or guilt.
- Decreased energy levels: People often struggle to get out of bed and feel lethargic throughout the day due to heat-disrupted sleep. Routine tasks may feel exhausting, and there is a strong desire to sleep more.
- Changes in appetite: Many experience cravings for comfort foods like chocolate and high-carb snacks, which spike blood sugar and insulin, leading to low energy afterward. Those with summer SAD commonly eat and sleep more than usual.
Tips for Managing Summer SAD
Dr Hurter offered three tips for managing symptoms during a heatwave:
- Eat a diet rich in vitamins: Foods like oatmeal, omelettes with egg whites, lean chicken or turkey, and snacks like popcorn, peanut butter, and nuts can stimulate serotonin levels. Caffeine should be avoided as it suppresses serotonin and can worsen symptoms.
- Establish a sleep routine: Quality sleep is crucial. Create a calm sleeping environment, establish a wind-down routine such as reading, limit screen time, use a fan, and avoid caffeine.
- Stay cool and hydrated: Close blinds or curtains during peak sunshine hours and drink plenty of water. This is especially important for those taking SSRIs or antidepressants, which can interfere with the brain's temperature-regulating centre, lowering heat tolerance and increasing sweat production.
Dr Hurter emphasised that while summer SAD is less common than winter SAD, the current heatwave may trigger symptoms in susceptible individuals. Anyone concerned about their mental health should speak to their GP.
