Seasonal depression is usually a winter issue, but not in Arizona

Nathaniel Bush, LCSW

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Beating the summer heat can feel nearly impossible, but it doesn’t have to be. There are simple, practical ways to manage the symptoms of summer SAD.”

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Seasonal affective disorder is often associated with winter, but in Arizona, it’s usually the summer heat and intense sunlight that can cause symptoms.

SAD is linked to seasonal changes and can bring about fatigue, depression and sleep issues. This is most commonly seen during colder months, when temperatures drop and there’s limited sunlight.

But the seasonal depression in Arizona is different. Here, symptoms are triggered by extreme temperatures and seemingly endless hours of sunlight. During Arizona summers, when temperatures often exceed 100 degrees Fahrenheit and stretch from May to September, the heat and sun can keep people indoors, isolated and inactive. Prolonged sunlight can also disrupt your sleep patterns and throw off your body’s natural rhythm.

Recognizing the symptoms is the first step to managing summer SAD effectively and protecting your mental health during the hotter months. Symptoms may include the following:

Fatigue and low energy: The extreme heat and constant sunlight can leave you feeling drained and lethargic.

Difficulty sleeping: Prolonged daylight and high nighttime temperatures can lead to insomnia or restless nights.

Irritability or mood swings: The oppressive heat and being stuck indoors can make you feel irritable or emotionally overwhelmed.

Loss of interest in activities: You might avoid outdoor hobbies because of the heat, leading to feelings of disconnection.

Increased isolation: Staying inside to escape the heat can lead to feelings of loneliness and withdrawal from social interactions.

Changes in appetite: Some people might overeat for comfort, while others lose their appetite entirely during extreme heat.

Physical symptoms: Headaches, dehydration, and general aches may also accompany mental health struggles related to Arizona’s intense summer conditions.

Beating the summer heat can feel nearly impossible, but it doesn’t have to be. There are simple, practical ways to manage the symptoms of summer SAD.

Try using blackout curtains or an eye mask to block out sunlight while you sleep, which can help reset your sleep cycle. Staying hydrated and spending time in air-conditioned spaces can also make a big difference in keeping your energy and mood stable.

Indoor hobbies or creative activities can help you stay engaged and lift your spirits, especially when it’s too hot to be outside. Planning outings for cooler times of day, such as early mornings or evenings, can make getting fresh air more manageable.

If your symptoms persist, don’t hesitate to explore therapy or counseling for added support. Professional help can give you tools to better understand and cope with seasonal depression.

With the right strategies and support, managing SAD in Arizona becomes much more achievable, even during the hottest months of the year.

Editor’s note: Nathaniel Bush, LCSW is clinical director of Cornerstone Healing Center, which operates treatment facilities in Scottsdale and Phoenix. Please send your comments to AzOpinions@iniusa.org. We are committed to publishing a wide variety of reader opinions, as long as they meet our Civility Guidelines.