Experts warn that biological, psychological and social factors can trigger seasonal depression during the summer, while unrealistic expectations surrounding holidays and social media comparisons may intensify emotional distress
Summer is often associated with holidays, sunshine and relaxation, yet mental health specialists are warning that for some people the season can have the opposite effect. According to medical experts, so-called "summer depression" is a form of seasonal affective disorder that may emerge during the warmer months when biological, psychological and environmental pressures converge. High temperatures, disrupted sleep, financial concerns linked to travel and constant comparisons with carefully curated holiday posts on social media can all contribute to declining mental wellbeing.
Doctors say the condition is most likely to affect people with a history of depression or anxiety, shift workers, outdoor employees and anyone particularly sensitive to changes in routine or social circumstances. Persistent irritability, sleep problems, loss of interest in daily activities and social withdrawal are among the warning signs that should not be ignored if they continue for more than two weeks.
Heat, disrupted routines and social pressure combine
Consultant psychiatrist Dr. Riyadh Khodair said summer depression should not be dismissed as temporary discomfort caused by hot weather. He explained that, unlike general depression, seasonal affective disorder follows a recurring seasonal pattern and, in summer, is often characterised by irritability, anxiety, disturbed sleep, loss of appetite and emotional exhaustion.
According to Dr. Khodair, the condition is driven by an interaction of biological, psychological and environmental influences rather than a single cause. Prolonged periods indoors to escape the heat, disrupted sleep, changes in daily routines during holidays, travel-related stress, family obligations and financial pressures may all contribute to symptoms. Altered daylight patterns can also affect the body's biological clock and the chemicals that regulate mood.
He warned that persistent sadness, unusual nervousness, poor concentration, sleep disturbances, reduced appetite, withdrawal from social life and loss of motivation should be taken seriously, particularly when they begin to interfere with work, education or personal relationships.
Some groups face a higher risk
Dr. Khodair identified people with previous episodes of depression, anxiety or seasonal affective disorder as being particularly vulnerable. Individuals with a family history of mental illness, outdoor workers, shift workers, teenagers and young adults during school holidays, as well as people living alone or lacking social support, also face an increased risk.
He noted that the condition can significantly reduce productivity by impairing concentration and motivation while increasing the likelihood of mistakes. At the same time, irritability and withdrawal may strain family life and social relationships.
Holidays can relieve stress or create it
Family medicine consultant Dr. Wasan Suleiman said that although holidays and travel often improve wellbeing, they can also become a source of stress because of jet lag, financial costs, disrupted sleep, loneliness or the pressure to achieve the "perfect holiday."
She added that high temperatures, humidity and sleep disruption may increase fatigue, stress and mood swings, while also raising the risk of dehydration and heat-related illness, particularly among children, older adults and people with chronic medical conditions.
Dr. Suleiman also pointed out that some medications, including diuretics and drugs affecting temperature regulation or increasing sensitivity to sunlight, may worsen the effects of heat. She advised consulting a physician if unusual symptoms occur.
To reduce the risk of summer depression, she recommended maintaining a regular sleep schedule, staying well hydrated, avoiding intense sun exposure during the hottest hours, exercising during cooler parts of the day and preserving regular social contact. She also cautioned against taking vitamin or nutritional supplements without medical advice, despite possible links between mood changes and deficiencies in nutrients such as vitamin D, vitamin B12, folic acid, iron and omega-3 fatty acids.
She added that neglecting hydration, consuming excessive sugary drinks and stimulants, remaining inactive and constantly comparing one's holidays with images shared on social media can increase dissatisfaction and worsen mood swings.
Early diagnosis improves treatment outcomes
Psychiatrist Dr. Ruqaya Awawdeh explained that seasonal affective disorder differs from ordinary mood fluctuations because it recurs during the same season, persists for weeks or months and has a measurable impact on work, education and social life.
She said diagnosis is based on a psychiatric assessment that considers symptom patterns, their seasonal recurrence and their effect on everyday functioning while excluding medical conditions such as thyroid disorders or vitamin deficiencies.
Most patients respond well to treatment, she noted. Depending on individual needs, therapy may include cognitive behavioural therapy, increased exposure to natural light, regular physical activity, healthier sleep habits, medically supervised light therapy and, where appropriate, antidepressant medication.
Dr. Awawdeh urged people to seek professional help if depressive symptoms persist for more than two weeks, interfere with daily responsibilities or return at the same time each year.
Happiness should not depend on travel
Psychologist Hessa Al-Rais said that summer depression should be recognised as a genuine form of seasonal depression when symptoms persist or reduce quality of life.
She explained that many people associate summer with travel and leisure, but financial or personal circumstances may prevent holidays, while comparisons with other people's experiences can generate frustration and sadness. Summer depression, she said, develops through a complex interaction of biological, psychological and social factors that varies from one individual to another.
Instead of linking happiness exclusively to travel, Al-Rais encouraged people to make the most of accessible activities such as visiting beaches or swimming pools, enjoying indoor leisure in air-conditioned venues, spending time with family, exploring local destinations and practising relaxation or meditation techniques. Maintaining healthy sleep patterns, staying physically active and spending time outdoors during suitable hours can also help improve mood and strengthen mental wellbeing.
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