Suffering in the Sunshine? Tackling Summer SAD in the Beehive State

Hey there, Utah sun-dwellers! We all know about the winter blues, but did you know that Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) can strike in summer too? Yep, while most of us are soaking up the rays and living our best lake life, some folks are struggling with what's sometimes called "reverse SAD" or summer-pattern SAD.

In a place like Utah, where summer days are long, hot, and bright, this can be particularly challenging. If you find yourself feeling irritable, anxious, or depressed as the mercury rises, you're not alone. Let's talk about how to keep your cool – mentally and emotionally – during Utah's sizzling summer months.

10 Ways to Beat the Summer Blues in Utah

1. Embrace the Night Take advantage of cooler, darker evenings for outdoor activities.

Try this: Plan evening picnics at Sugar House Park or stargazing trips to Antelope Island. The cooler temps and reduced sunlight can be a welcome relief.

1. Create a Cool Sanctuary Make your home a refuge from the heat and bright light.

Try this: Invest in good blackout curtains for your bedroom. Create a cool, dark space where you can retreat when the brightness and heat feel overwhelming.

1. Stay Hydrated Dehydration can worsen mood and anxiety.

Try this: Set reminders to drink water throughout the day. Infuse your water with cucumber or mint for a refreshing twist.

1. Adjust Your Schedule Work with your body's rhythms, not against them.

Try this: If possible, shift your work or activity schedule to cooler parts of the day. Maybe start your day with a sunrise hike in the Wasatch Mountains before the heat sets in.

1. Practice Cooling Mindfulness Use mindfulness techniques to help you feel cooler and calmer.

Try this: Try a "cool visualization" meditation. Imagine a snowy landscape or a cool mountain stream. Your body can actually respond to these mental images!

1. Maintain Social Connections Don't let the heat isolate you.

Try this: Host a "beat the heat" movie night with friends. Choose winter-themed movies and serve cool treats.

1. Get Moving (Safely) Exercise is crucial for mental health, but be smart about it in the heat.

Try this: Take advantage of Utah's many indoor climbing gyms, try early morning yoga in the park, or go for a swim at one of Salt Lake City's public pools.

1. Watch Your Diet What you eat can affect how you handle the heat and your mood.

Try this: Focus on light, cooling foods. Try a chilled gazpacho soup or a refreshing summer salad with locally grown produce from the Downtown Farmers Market.

1. Consider Light Therapy (In Reverse) While winter SAD sufferers need more light, summer SAD folks might benefit from less.

Try this: Talk to your doctor about using light therapy in reverse – spending time in darkness or using blue light blocking glasses, especially in the evening.

1. Seek Professional Help If your summer blues are significantly impacting your life, it's okay to ask for help.

Try this: Look for a therapist who has experience with SAD. Many Utah mental health professionals are recognizing that SAD isn't just a winter phenomenon.

Remember, there's no shame in struggling during a season that everyone else seems to love. Your feelings are valid, and there are ways to manage them. You don't have to suffer in silence (or sunshine).

[Call to Action: Feeling down despite the sunny days? Let's talk about it. Schedule a session and we'll work on strategies to help you navigate summer SAD and find your balance, no matter the season.]