It is estimated that five percent of adults in the United States suffer from seasonal affective disorder, and that less than one percent suffer from reverse seasonal affective disorder.

Reverse seasonal affective disorder occurs when individuals experience depression during the summer months. Winter seasonal affective disorder is caused by a lack of sunlight, and summer seasonal affective disorder is often linked to too much sunlight. Reverse seasonal affective disorder is a condition in which some individuals, during the spring and summer, have symptoms of mania or hypomania. According to the Mayo Clinic, “this means individuals can have an elevated mood, agitation, and rapid thoughts and speech. Reverse seasonal affective disorder is a form of bipolar disorder.”

Symptoms of reverse seasonal affective disorder include:
• Elevated mood
• Increased social activity
• Hyperactivity
• Excessive amount of enthusiasm that is inappropriate for the situation

Reverse seasonal affective disorder, like any other health issue, should not be ignored. If left untreated, it can escalate into a major depression syndrome. If you think you are experiencing symptoms of seasonal affective disorder or any other depression, contact Solace Counseling.