Why Summer Depression Is Real

For many, summer is a time for sunshine, travel, and social connection. But if you find yourself feeling low, withdrawn, or anxious when the weather warms up, you’re not alone. While seasonal affective disorder (SAD) is most often linked to winter, a lesser-known form — summer-pattern SAD — affects thousands of Canadians each year, especially in places like Ontario where seasonal extremes are common.

Understanding summer depression — and how to navigate it — can help you feel more in control and supported, even when everything around you says you “should” feel great.

What Summer Depression Feels Like

While everyone’s experience is different, common symptoms of summer depression include:

• Low mood or irritability that lasts several weeks

• Difficulty sleeping or changes in sleep patterns

• Loss of interest in socializing or hobbies

• Feeling overwhelmed by heat, light, or a shift in routine

• Increased anxiety, especially around expectations to “enjoy” summer

• Changes in appetite, often decreased

You might feel confused or even guilty — especially when others around you seem energized and carefree. But mental health isn’t seasonal, and depression doesn’t take the summer off.

Why It Happens

There’s no single cause of summer depression, but several factors may contribute:

• Disrupted routines: With vacations, school breaks, or altered work schedules, your normal structure may be thrown off.

• Heat and light sensitivity: Long days and higher temperatures can lead to overstimulation, poor sleep, or fatigue.

• Social pressure: The expectation to be happy, productive, or social can feel overwhelming — especially if you’re already struggling.

• Body image concerns: Summer can trigger anxiety related to appearance, especially with more skin-revealing clothing or beach outings.

• Isolation: While others may be traveling or busy, you might feel left out or disconnected from your usual support systems.

  
  

What You Can Do

If you’re feeling low this summer, here are a few strategies that can help:

1. Create a Consistent Routine

Even if your schedule shifts, try to maintain regular sleep, meals, and downtime. Routines can provide a sense of stability when everything else feels up in the air.

2. Limit Exposure to Overwhelming Stimuli

If light or heat is triggering, use blackout curtains, spend time in cool indoor spaces, or structure your outdoor activities in the early morning or evening.

3. Give Yourself Permission to Opt Out

It’s okay to skip the BBQ or beach day if you’re not up for it. Prioritize rest and connection that feels meaningful to you — not what others expect.

4. Move Your Body Gently

Exercise can help regulate mood, but it doesn’t need to be intense. A slow walk, gentle yoga, or stretching indoors can make a difference.

5. Talk to Someone

Depression often thrives in silence. Speaking with a therapist can help you better understand what’s happening and create a plan that works for your needs.

How Therapy Can Help

Whether it’s a new pattern or something you’ve experienced before, summer depression is valid — and treatable. At our practice, we offer both counselling and psychotherapy for individuals across Ontario, in person or online.

You might benefit from short-term counselling to cope with seasonal challenges or deeper psychotherapy to explore the emotional roots of your experience. Either way, we’re here to meet you where you are.

FAQ: Summer Depression

Is summer depression common?

Yes. While less recognized than winter SAD, summer-pattern seasonal depression affects thousands of people and can be just as disruptive.

How do I know if I need therapy?

If your low mood lasts more than a couple of weeks, interferes with your daily life, or feels overwhelming, therapy can be a safe place to get support and clarity. Remember: therapy isn't just. for times when you're feeling low! You can start or re-start therapy at any point, regardless of your mood.

Can I start therapy even if I’m not sure what’s wrong?

Absolutely. You don’t need a diagnosis or a clear reason. Many people start therapy just knowing that something feels “off.”

Is therapy covered in Ontario?

If you're seeing a Registered Psychotherapist or Registered Social Worker, your sessions may be covered under your extended health benefits. Psychotherapy is not covered by OHIP.

Getting Started

At Health Counselling and Therapy, we offer compassionate, confidential support for people struggling with summer depression, other seasonal mood shifts, and any other issue you are facing. We provide free 15-minute consultations to help you explore whether counselling, psychotherapy, or a blend of both is right for you. We offer virtual sessions across Ontario and in-person appointments in Sarnia, Ontario.

Final Thoughts

If you’re feeling down this summer, know that you’re not alone — and that how you feel is valid, even if it goes against the seasonal stereotype. Therapy can help you feel more grounded, understood, and hopeful — no matter what the weather is doing. We're here to walk with you through it.