When most people think of summer, they imagine sun-drenched beaches, iced lattes on breezy terraces, and a general sense of lightness and escape. But here in the UAE, summer paints a very different picture — one of relentless heat, empty city streets, and the feeling of being stuck indoors for months on end.
If you’ve recently caught yourself thinking, “Did I just melt walking from the car to the mall?” or noticed a quiet heaviness settling in despite the icy blast of AC, you’re not alone — and you’re certainly not imagining it. What you might be feeling is what mental health professionals are increasingly referring to as Summer Sadness.
It’s that unexpected emotional dip that hits just when you’re supposed to be feeling your best — when the pressure to be out, happy, and glowing clashes with the reality of exhaustion, isolation, or simply not being in sync with the season. And yes, it’s a real thing.
Why Does Summer Impact Our Mood?
While seasonal affective disorder is typically associated with grey skies and chilly winters, for those of us living in the Gulf, it’s the relentless summer heat that takes a toll. The soaring temperatures, long hours spent indoors, and the social media parade of envy-inducing European holidays can all contribute to feelings of emotional burnout. Suddenly, everyone seems to be sailing through Santorini while you’re stuck navigating a parking lot in 45°C heat.
In short, the heat changes everything. Elevated temperatures can disrupt sleep, zap your energy, and impact hydration, leaving your body in a near-constant state of survival mode. That mental fog, irritability, and lack of motivation? They’re all common reactions to the physical stress of staying cool in extreme conditions. Add to that a drop in social interaction and an uptick in screen time, and it’s easy to feel off balance without fully realising why.
How to Feel Like You Again (Even When It’s 47°C)
The good news? You’re not powerless. A few mindful adjustments can help restore your mood and bring back a sense of normalcy, even if the weather is anything but that.
Start Your Day with Intention
Create a simple morning ritual to signal a positive start. Light a candle, stretch, play your favourite music, even if you’re working from home. These small acts can help regulate your mood and set a tone of calm and control.
Cool Your Space, Calm Your Mind
Get creative with comfort. Use a fun desk fan, chill your pillowcases, or spritz yourself with rosewater. These sensory moments aren’t trivial; they can refresh both body and spirit.
Stay Connected, Even Virtually
If your social calendar is quieter, resist the urge to isolate. Schedule FaceTime catch-ups, join an online book club, or start a light-hearted group chat to share reels, rants, and moments of joy.
Move Gently
You don’t need to push through gruelling workouts. A short indoor yoga session or ten minutes of dancing in your living room can do wonders for both body and mind. Movement is medicine—even in small doses.
Practice Self-Compassion
This isn’t the season to chase perfection. If you’re not at peak productivity or feeling your best, it’s okay. You’re not falling behind, you’re adapting. And the rest is not just allowed, it’s essential.
If your mood continues to feel heavy after a few weeks, consider speaking with a mental health professional. Seeking support is a sign of strength, not weakness. After all, emotional well-being deserves attention all year round, not just when the weather’s pleasant. In the meantime, hydrate, hibernate when needed, and remember: while the summer heat might be Intense, your mental health doesn’t have to suffer because of it.
Authored by Hiba Salem, Psychologist, Adult & Families Specialist at Sage Clinics
