Why Summer Is a Great Time to Start Tackling Your Mental Health Issues

Does your anxiety or depression seem to get worse during the winter and better in the summer? 

Plenty of people struggle with what is commonly called the winter blues, but is actually a manifestation of seasonal affective disorder (SAD). This condition can make depression symptoms worse as daylight shortens and nights get longer. 

 At Genesis Psychiatric Solutions, board-certified psychiatrist Dr. Ifeanyi Olele treats a range of mental health issues, including seasonally affected depression. 

Here’s what you should know about summer treatment for these conditions and how they can help you avoid worse issues when cold, dark weather returns.

Why so many people with depression feel better in summer

Depression can worsen due to:

• Isolation
• Lack of natural light
• A poor diet
• Confinement indoors

All of these things are more common during winter months. Depression can turn from a low-level clouded mood to a dark well that’s difficult to climb out of without help.

Seasonal affective disorder can contribute to feeling worse in the winter and better in the summer. As days get longer and the weather turns warmer, you get out more often and interact socially. 

You’re exposed to extra natural light and can start eating more fresh fruit and vegetables as they come in season. Instead of staying indoors, studying or sleeping your days away, it’s easier to get out of the house.

All of these factors contribute to feeling a lot better as spring turns to summer and sunny skies reign. With natural positive mood enforcers in place, it’s the perfect time to start tackling your mental health issues. 

Getting a handle on seasonally affected depression

If last winter was particularly hard on you, it’s time to seek professional help so you can face this year’s cold dark months with confidence. A good place to start is with a mental health consultation with Dr. Olele.

If depression is still making it hard for you to leave your house, don’t worry. You can book a telehealth visit and start a discussion about your depressive symptoms and how to treat them. 

Dr. Olele can discuss your past attempts at treatment (if any) and prescribe appropriate medication and lifestyle changes.

Repeated telehealth sessions during the summer, when you naturally feel better, make it easy to keep Dr. Olele updated on your condition and to focus on your mental health. 

By the time winter rolls around, you can have your depressive symptoms well in hand, and have plenty of tools to make surviving the cold, dark months easier on your psyche.

To learn more about seasonal affective disorder, winter blues, and depression, and to get help, contact us by calling our office closest to you. We’re located in Fairfax and Alexandria, Virginia, and in Washington, DC. Schedule a 10-minute phone consultation today.