Doctors in the UAE are observing an uptick in cases of seasonal affective disorder (SAD), commonly referred to as ‘summertime blues’. This type of depression is typically seen in individuals between the ages of 40 and 50 and is characterized by symptoms such as sadness, lack of energy, loss of interest in usual activities, oversleeping, and weight gain. Shedding light on this phenomenon, experts in the UAE have noted that several factors contribute to summertime SAD, but it is a treatable condition. Longer daylight hours, shorter nights, and high temperatures can also cause sleep disruptions, exacerbating the symptoms of the disorder.
Dr. Samar Sharaf, a Specialist Psychiatrist at Zulekha Hospital Sharjah, explained that seasonal affective disorder is a type of depressive disorder that occurs during certain seasons of the year. Reduced melatonin levels, consistent with long, hot days worsening sleep quality, can lead to symptoms of depression during the summer months. Some individuals may experience a rare form of the disorder, with depression starting in late spring or early summer and ending in the fall. Girish Hemnani, a Dubai-based Life Coach and Energy Healer, highlighted the impact of extreme temperatures and lifestyle changes on the prevalence of ‘summertime blues’ in the UAE. Dehydration and vacation-related stress can further exacerbate the condition.
Unlike parts of the world where sunlight is scarce during the winter, doctors in the UAE explained why the opposite holds true in the region. In tropical climates like the UAE, summer SAD is more common due to the extreme heat and prolonged daylight hours, which can trigger depressive symptoms. Summer heat forces residents to stay indoors for extended periods, depriving them of critical exposure to sun and fresh air, leading to a host of health issues. Dr. Shaju George, Specialist Psychiatrist at International Modern Hospital Dubai, noted that during the summer months, people may not get adequate daylight exposure due to the scorching heat, similar to the situation in winter in temperate climate countries.
Patients experiencing symptoms of depression such as feeling low, fatigue, and craving for carbohydrate-rich foods should aim for minimum exposure to daylight in the early morning or late evening hours. An earlier study conducted at the University of Rochester found that spending time in green, natural environments outdoors can significantly boost physical and mental energy levels. Dr. George advised individuals to take supplements like vitamin D, seek help from clinical psychologists and psychiatrists when needed, and consider medication if recommended by a psychiatrist. By addressing lifestyle factors and seeking professional support, individuals can better manage their symptoms of summertime SAD in the UAE.
