¿Por qué algunas personas experimentan ansiedad en verano?

Is summer anxiety real?

Elena Touroni, a consultant psychologist and co-founder of The Chelsea Psychology Clinic, London, explains that summer anxiety might be a sign of seasonal affective disorder (SAD) or 'reverse' SAD. Seasonal affective disorder is the term used to describe a change in the seasons that triggers ansiedad in people. This mostly occurs during late autumn and wintertime, and it is thought to be caused by a lack of light.

However, seasonal anxiety isn't just an issue during winter. Despite the warmer months being a happy time for many - school's over, the sun's shining, and the BBQs are out - summertime sadness can take a real toll on mental health.

While summer SAD isn't medically recognised or diagnosed, there are a number of reasons why someone might feel down or find that existing mental health conditions worsen during summer. It's important to investigate the possible causes to uncover why you might feel this way so you can seek help.

Why do people get summer anxiety?

Touroni says that people can develop anxiety for different reasons, but the main underlying core belief of any anxiety disorder is an exaggerated sense of vulnerability in the world.

According to Mental Health UK, there are biological reasons why you might feel 'hot and bothered' in extreme temperatures. For example, changes in melatonin experienced in the summer months affect your daily sleep patterns (circadian rhythms), which can lead to trouble sleeping and, as a result, weakness and reduced mood.

The heat in particular can have an effect on pre-existing anxiety, as rising temperatures can cause higher levels of cortisol - your primary stress hormone. In turn, this might lead to heart palpitations, náuseas, y fatiga.

They add that these symptoms of anxiety can feel similar to a ataque de pánico, which might make us more anxious when we notice them. Humidity may also cause symptoms of mareos y deshidratación.

What's the difference between summer anxiety and winter anxiety?

Touroni explains that summer anxiety and winter anxiety differ in the sense that the triggers might be different. However, the symptoms are likely to be the same.

Can holidays also be anxiety-inducing?

As mentioned above, holidays can cause additional estrés over summer. While we tend to think of getaways as a time to switch off and relax, they definitely have the potential to make us anxious.

"If someone already struggles with anxiety, the pressures of organising a holiday and for everything to be 'just right' can trigger anxious thoughts and feelings," says Touroni. "Likewise, some people struggle with going off the grid or taking time off, so the lack of distractions on holiday can actually be a trigger too."

The planning process for a holiday often includes booking accommodation, arranging travel, organising childcare, packing, and sorting out finances. All these combined can lead to feelings of stress and panic. Likewise, while you are on holiday, it's understandable that you may worry about what's going on back at home or feel agitated by the change to your daily routine.

How to manage summer anxiety

Fortunately, as draining as summer anxiety can be, there are ways of managing it.

When should you see a doctor about anxiety?

If your anxiety has started to interfere with your daily life, your ability to perform everyday tasks, and your relationships, it's important to seek professional help. Don't wait until you feel worse.

Your GP is a good starting place, as they can signpost helpful resources, make referrals for counselling, and prescribe anti-anxiety medicine if needed.

Other helpful resources are:

• Mind.

• Young Minds.

• Anxiety Care UK.

• British Association for Counselling and Psychotherapy (BACP).

• No More Panic.

• Samaritans.