If you’ve been feeling lethargic and unmotivated to do anything, even socialize, you’re not alone. It is assumed that Seasonal Affective Disorder only rears its head during winter but according to experts, many of us feel it in the summer.
SOME REASONS:
1. Disrupted Summer Schedules
If you’ve had depression before, you probably know that having a reliable routine is often key to staving off symptoms. But during the summer, routine goes out the window – and that disruption can be stressful. Keeping kids busy now that they’re out of school and even vacations can cause stress due to changes in sleep, routine and eating habits.
2. Finances
Seeing all of your friends fly off to exotic locales while you struggle with the day to day reality of living can be hard. Parents may have the extra stress of paying for summer camps. You might worry about job security if you take that much needed time off.
3. Heat
Some of us just can’t take it. When the humidity causes the air quality to take a nosedive, it can feel oppressive. While outdoor summer dance parties might appeal to some of us, others may find the only thing they can do is sit in the AC.
SOME COPING MECHANISMS:
1. Go Pro
It might be worth it to see an expert that can assess if you’ve got Seasonal Affective Disorder.
2. Exercise
Start out early in the morning or in the evening after the sun goes down to avoid the hottest times of day. Moving your body releases happy hormones that will make you feel better. A nice slow walk is fine.
3. Selfcare
Do something that’s just for you. Take yourself to the movies. Have a spa day. Let go of FOMO. Give yourself permission to say “No thank you.”
Go With The Slow.
Allison Tray, Proprietress at Tres Belle Spa, has been treating clients to results based luxury skincare since 2004. Located in the beautiful hamlet of Boerum Hill Brooklyn, she and her staff operate in a manner of kindness and excellence. Tray herself is mom to senior cat Julio, who like his mom, loves his people, not to mention a late nosh.
Photo by Annie Spratt on Unsplash