Summer anxiety symptoms can be worsened by hot weather

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Forget the winter blues, summer anxiety is a real thing – here’s how to cope with it.

While Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) is commonly associated with the darker winter months, experts say a form of anxiety can also emerge during summer.

Although many people look forward to the warmer weather as a time for relaxation, holidays and socialising, for others the season can bring heightened stress and anxiety. In fact, a recent survey found that nearly three in four (73%) respondents experience increased symptoms of anxiety during the summer months. According to Anxiety UK, the national charity run by and for people living with anxiety, several factors can contribute to this seasonal rise in anxiety levels.

Here, Anxiety UK highlights some of the most common triggers of summer anxiety and shares advice on how to manage symptoms:

Disruption of routines

“The change in routine during the summer months can be challenging for those who thrive on structure and predictability. With children out of school, parents may also need to arrange for childcare or find activities to keep their kids occupied, which can be anxiety-provoking.

“With longer days and fewer structured activities, individuals may have more idle time. For someone with an anxious mind, this can lead to increased rumination and worrying.”

Social pressures

“With the prevalence of social gatherings, outdoor events and vacations during the summer months, there can be a sense of pressure to socialise, have fun and make the most of the season. For some individuals, social situations can trigger anxiety due to various factors such as fear of judgment, concerns about fitting in or feeling overwhelmed by large crowds. Additionally, there may be expectations to engage in activities or attend events that one may not feel comfortable with, leading to feelings of stress or apprehension.

“As well as this, the increased emphasis on appearance during the summer months, including wearing swimsuits or summer attire can also contribute to body image-related anxieties for some individuals.”

Financial stress

“Summer can be an expensive time, leading to financial anxiety for many individuals. The increased costs associated with vacations, activities, childcare and utilities can strain budgets and create stress.

“The cost-of-living crisis is already taking a huge toll on mental health. A recent survey revealed that over half of UK adults (54%) cite financial worries as their primary day-to-day concern. As a result of anxious thoughts, half (48%) also struggle to switch off at night, creating a sleep debt that worsens anxiety symptoms.”

Heat and humidity

“For some individuals, physical sensations like sweating, fatigue and shortness of breath can mimic symptoms of anxiety, especially in warmer weather. When temperatures rise, the body works harder to cool itself down, which can exacerbate these sensations and contribute to feelings of discomfort or unease.

“Heat-related symptoms such as dehydration, tiredness and nausea can also exacerbate anxiety or make it more challenging to cope with existing anxiety symptoms. Additionally, poor sleep quality due to high temperatures can further contribute to fatigue and increased stress levels, causing a cycle that can be difficult to break.”

How to cope with summer anxiety

While summer anxiety can affect people in different ways, Anxiety UK says there are a number of practical self-help strategies that can help alleviate symptoms:

“Keeping a consistent daily routine, including regular sleep, meals and exercise, can help maintain stability. Staying connected with friends and family for support, but also setting boundaries and learning to say no to social invitations can help to avoid feeling overwhelmed. With careful planning and budgeting, you can effectively manage summer financial worries. Plus keeping cool by hydrating, seeking air-conditioned environments and wearing breathable clothing can help to minimise physical triggers.

“If summer anxiety becomes overwhelming, it may be beneficial to seek help from a professional. Therapists, pharmacists and GPs can offer guidance and potential treatment options including medication, talking therapies and counselling, complementary and alternative medicines and other proven non-pharmacological interventions, such as Kalms Lavender.”

New research suggests that a daily capsule of pharmaceutical quality lavender oil, found only in Kalms Lavender, can significantly improve symptoms of mild, moderate and severe anxiety. Its effectiveness rivals that of commonly prescribed anxiolytics like benzodiazepines and SSRIs, without the drawbacks associated with sedation and addiction.