Woohoo! With June quickly approaching, schools are almost out! Everyone is in a great mood. But did you know that might not be the only reason you feel extra happy? There’s actually a scientific reason why summer is the happiest season! Seasonal Affective Disorder, or SAD, is referred to as a mood disorder, typically triggered in the long months of fall and winter. Most people are bound to feel sad during long, cold winter days, but those with SAD feel this to the extreme. Unlike a typical depression diagnosis, these feelings begin to fade away when spring or summer begins.
Scientifically, what exactly triggers SAD? According to Cleveland Clinic, there is not one specific reason confirmed by research, but studies show that reasons include a biological clock change, brain chemical imbalance, vitamin D deficiency and melatonin boost. To begin, the biological clock regulates mood, sleep, and hormones, and when the length of daylight changes, it can be difficult to adjust. In addition to this, a lack in the brain chemical that contributes to the feeling of happiness, serotonin, can worsen SAD. Scientifically, sunlight helps to regulate serotonin levels, so not enough sunlight can cause a lack of serotonin. Very similarly to this, vitamin D also contributes to serotonin levels. Less sunlight essentially means less vitamin D, which means less serotonin production. And, finally, SAD can be caused by a melatonin boost. Melatonin is the chemical that impacts sleep patterns and mood. For some people, less sunlight may mean an overproduction of melatonin, making them more tired during the winter months.
While SAD can make affected individuals feel extreme sadness, anxiety, fatigue, and further symptoms, there are some ways to manage it. A technique I found interesting is called light therapy. This process involves using a special type of light to mimic natural sunlight, resulting in an increase in happiness for most who try it. Other more common resources include therapy, antidepressants in extreme situations, and of course, spending more time outside to increase sunlight exposure. It is important for any feeling these symptoms to do their best to seek help.
While SAD is a very serious issue impacting many, it’s important to take into account the benefits of summer regardless of if you feel symptoms or not. There are so many ways to improve your mental health from the sunlight, long daylight hours, and overall happiness of summer. Science has pretty much proved that it is the best season!
