Depression’s Darkness and the Summer’s Sun

Sunbeams stream through my window calling me to come out and play. I squint at the invitation, beginning to feel the warmth on my face.

Sunny summer days’ promises are endless as you squeeze sand through your toes at the beach, splash in a pool with friends and enjoy some hotdogs off the grill in the backyard. Summer entices us to breathe in the smell of freshly cut grass, capture fireflies in the mellow evenings and enjoy watermelon as it drips from your chin. Summer brings with it the call of children from lemonade stands, the crack of a baseball bat at the ball field, and the hum of fresh ice-cream churning on the patio.

With all this goodness happening, it can easily be assumed that summer is a cure for depression, or at the least summer can lessen its disabling symptoms. Yet for people with the illness of depression, MDD (Major Depressive Disorder) and its companion anxiety, GAD (Generalized Anxiety Disorder) their symptoms, like any other illness, are present all year round. Depression is a real illness. I know what it is like to experience the darkness of depression during the summer.

After I was first diagnosed with depression, I confided in a friend about my symptoms and she said to me, “You have a nice husband and you’re thin. Why would you be depressed? Besides, it’s summer!”

This was extremely hurtful to me at a time when I needed validation for the pain I was in and for the difficulty of navigating a serious illness. She made it sound like depression was a choice I was making, that it was somehow my fault. I started into the “should” mentality. I should be able to control how I feel. I should have more energy. I should feel good. I have learned over many years of living with depression that the only choice I have with depression is whether to reach out for help or to suffer in silence.

Summer is a time when my depression peaks. It doesn’t make sense, I know. If you’re dealing with depression in these sunny summer days, you may feel some “shoulds” bringing on unnecessary guilt. I should enjoy the sunlight more. I should feel better. I should get out and do more. I should be happy. It is my hope that you will rid your vocabulary of the word “should” and reach out for help. Remember, the opposite of depression is not happiness; it is wellness. Reaching out to a loved one or trusted friend for support along with talking to your primary care doctor about your symptoms are the first steps for living in wellness. Depression is a real illness AND it has real answers for healing.

How can someone with depression enjoy the summoning of summer?

• Summer’s longer days can mean less sleep. Make sure you are getting enough sleep. A good sleep routine helps control depression’s symptoms.
• Summer can mean a change in schedule. Do some things consistently every day. Brains love structure and routines. Idea – Write in your journal at the same time every day.
• Summer “shoulds” can be eliminated. Allow yourself to feel the emotions you have. You may want to try using the term, “I choose to ___________”
• Summer’s outdoor activities can offer more options for exercise. Move your body every day. Even a short daily walk can help you manage depression.
• Summer offers aspirations. Accomplishing small goals helps you to live in the moment which is a great depression relief strategy. For instance, planting some tomato plants and watering them daily as you watch the red ripe fruit grow. Or participating in a weekly cycling group and enjoying some summer bike rides.
• Summer offers down time. Have a summer reading list. This is helpful if you have some time to fill. Being bored and not knowing what to do can increase anxiety.
• Sunlight can demand activity, yet it also offers relaxation. Take advantage of both.

As you stay consistent with your wellness plan all year round, you can then appreciate the summer for its beautiful and healing offerings. Sit outside when possible, pull off your shoes, raise your hands and soak in the sun, feel its warmth and tap into the energy of the sunbeams.

 

 

 

To print quote click here