Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD), commonly referred to as winter depression, is defined as a condition that occurs specifically with the onset of winter, due to reduced exposure to light and longer nights, bringing in gloomy moods and a ‘winter blues’ state of mind. While this is true for regions with relatively colder climatic conditions, for India, which has a tropical monsoon and dry climate, signs and symptoms of SAD can be associated with rising temperatures. It is a common phenomenon during the summer season.

“In a country like India which is subject to intense temperature variations, it is often seen that persons suffering from Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) may experience it worsening during the summer months,” says Dr Kedar Tilwe, consultant and psychiatrist at Fortis Hospital, Mumbai.