Summer has its own blues and they are not (only) about the blue of the sea
More or less we have all identified summer with carelessness, baths, rest, holidays and fun. For some there is that one summer they will remember forever, while others spend almost the entire year making plans for the summer to come.
And because, as they say, no winter lasts forever, with the end of spring comes the summer season.
And then, between the baths, the summers, the ice cream on the terrace and the cold beers in the square at night, what Lana introduced to us as summertime sadness breaks out, and which – between us – we all already knew.
What are the summer blues?
In the language of psychology they are not obviously labeled as blues but the term seasonal affective disorder or SAD is preferred. Others also define it as summer blues.
The condition in question is not an official diagnosis because the symptoms by definition are not severe enough to be categorized as depression. Although experts say it is difficult to estimate how many people are affected, it is known that summer blues can be experienced by anyone, even if they do not suffer from depression. The reasons vary.
1. Weather changes
Experts have yet to decide what triggers this summertime depression, but it is speculated that longer days combined with increased heat and humidity may play a role. At the same time, excess bright light can slow down the production of melatonin, the hormone that contributes to the regulation of the circadian rhythm and therefore the quality of sleep. And as we know, less sleep contributes to depression or depressive symptoms. At the same time, the decrease in the levels of serotonin, the “hormone of well-being”, negatively affects our mood.
2. Changes in daily routine
The disrupted schedules that characterize summer can cause anxiety and stress, as they may disrupt our work, sleep, eating habits, and exercise and physical activity schedule. According to an article by the American Psychological Association, “there is sufficient epidemiological data to show that people who have been active and stop being, tend to experience more severe depression than those who maintain or start an exercise program.”
3. Body image
Natural body image issues are more relevant than ever. Any body or weight insecurities come to the fore, as many feel uncomfortable in shorts or swimwear. And since Greek summer = beach + swimming in the sea, any reluctance to appear in a bathing suit is capable of keeping you away from social gatherings.
4. Social Media and the FOMO phenomenon
Social media can add to the stress, causing the FOMO (fear of missing out) effect. Our smartphones are flooded with photos, messages and tweets from people who seem to be having a great time. Everyone is at the beach having a great time, traveling, going out, having fun… leaving those who are left at home feeling isolated and depressed.
5. Financial stress
Summer is, in general, the ideal time of year for vacations. Holidays, however, require organization, planning and, of course, a budget. Therefore, in addition to the stress of booking accommodation, tickets and the like, the “holiday” project comes with a series of increased costs. And in general that can be a source of stress, no?
How will you deal with the summer blues?
1. Listen to your feelings
Start by identifying your own personal triggers. What is it that in your case triggers the feeling of melancholy? Is it a change in your routine, the diet or exercise program you were following, the organization of your vacation, or is the relationship with your body creating some kind of stress?
2. Create a routine (and stick to it)
Sticking to a consistent routine can help us feel more motivated and composed. The schedule should start with the basics: wake up time, meal times, work times, free time, and sleep time. Beyond that, don’t forget to add time for family, social and creative activities, self-care and exercise.
3. Make self-care a way of life
Self-care shouldn’t be a luxury. Making time for relaxation, social activities, and other feel-good needs helps keep you healthy and productive. So cut back on doing things for you, take your time, read, sleep well, cook, make a journal of your feelings, go for a walk, spend time with yourself and loved ones.
4. Take a break from SoMe
It’s also called digital detox and I promise you it’s the trend of the summer. He deleted Instagram for two months and we’ve been seeing each other since September. Look to see where you can and don’t look for it.
5. Avoid possible psychological traps
Don’t compare, don’t blame yourself, try not to indulge in binge eating habits, don’t spend on things you don’t really need while shopping online. All of these are more likely to create problems for you than to offer a solution to existing ones.
6. Do things that make you feel good (and beautiful)
Take care of yourself, start eating more properly, make any changes your skincare program may need, start doing a little more exercise (at home with the air conditioner or go for a walk when the heat has gone down) and generally find ways to feel good about your body and image. If necessary, set new, healthy goals and get started on what will give you more confidence in the future.
7. Spend time with yourself
During the summer season, you may not be able to easily coordinate with others since everyone’s vacation schedule is different. If you find yourself alone in the city, just take it as an opportunity to get to know it better, go for walks, go to a summer movie, take yourself out for a coffee or even
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