Episode 61: Summertime, by host, Laura Milkins. Our guest, Suzy Murphy, tells the story of her depression and suicidal ideation, and how a combination of therapy, peer support, medication and persistence has gotten her through the worst struggles. Sunday, June 4, 2017.
Excerpts from Smithsonian Magazine:
People Get Seasonal Depression in the Summer, Too
June 22, 2015
Other symptoms are opposites, like the seasons themselves. Winter sufferers often feel sluggish, sleep more than usual and tend to overeat and gain weight. By contrast, summertime depression often brings insomnia, loss of appetite, weight loss and feelings of agitation or anxiety. Summertime SAD can also create an increased feeling of isolation. If misery loves company, SAD sufferers can find plenty of other people to commiserate with during the dreary winter months. But during summer, most everyone else seems to be having a great time.
It remains a puzzle why some people experience SAD during the months of fun in the sun. Some research suggests that it can be triggered by too much sun exposure or oppressive heat. Other scientists have theorized that allergies play a roll, or that people are responding to shifts in sleeping habits during summer’s lighter nights and bright early mornings.
Give the gift of Smithsonian magazine for only $12! http://bit.ly/1cGUiGv
Follow us: @SmithsonianMag on Twitter
