Bummed summer's almost over? Here's how to not get depressed

Summer’s warmer weather calls for happiness-inducing activities such as spending time at the beach, laying out by the pool, going on vacation or simply relaxing. With so much pleasure and leisure happening during the summer months, it’s no wonder some people experience post-summer blues once the fun ends. To prevent the seasonal transition from taking a toll on your mental health, we chatted with Elisabeth Gulotta, LMHC, a psychotherapist, founder of NYC Therapeutic Wellness and host of the “Quiet The Clock” podcast, for tips on how to beat the dreaded "seasonal scaries."

Why some people experience post-summer blues

So, why do some people experience these post-summer blues in the first place? One reason Gulotta explains is that sunlight is a big mood booster, so colder months may trigger depression episodes in some people. This is known as seasonal affective disorder (SAD). Beyond that, though, she notes that a mindset and energetic shift happens as we transition from summer to fall, which could also bring about the post-summer blues.

During summer, we have “permission” to have more fun and dial down the intensity of our day-to-day duties. For instance, things may slow down at work as many people go on vacations, and some companies offer summer Fridays off or half days. “It seems internally and externally, there is this permission to slow down and enjoy,” Gulotta says. “Post Labor Day, we mentally shift back. There is this overall feeling that we must dive fully back into everything with a certain intensity.”

3 ways to help beat the seasonal scaries

The views expressed in this article do not necessarily represent the views of Murad, and are for informational purposes only, even if the advice of physicians and medical practitioners are included. This article is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment, and should not be considered specific medical advice. 

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