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In Vancouver, Washington there are approximately 143 sunny days per year. That makes for 222 cloudy, gloomy days!

In fact, it is so cloudy here that weather forecasters have a special term— “sun breaks”—to describe the periodic bursts of sunshine that are both rare and cherished.

So far this summer, the sun has come out to play peek-a-boo only sporadically. Though some Vancouver natives seem to be immune to the months of grey clouds and misty rain, others have moods that are visibly defined by the seasonal weather.

On sunny days, can you tell a difference in your mood? Do you tend to become more active? More cheerful? More energetic?  Maybe you are not meeting full criteria for Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD), but you might notice subtle shifts in temperament nonetheless.  Regardless, you can take a Quick Quiz to learn more or ask a professional counselor for an assessment for Seasonal Affective Disorder.

Why write about SAD in the summer time?

  • If you DO struggle with seasonal mood shifts, NOW is the time to plan for the long rainy season.
  • Now is when you might be feeling most energized and motivated.
  • Now is the time to finally schedule that doctor’s appointment to check your Vitamin D levels or thyroid.
  • Now is when you might feel driven to read about remedies for SAD.
  • Now is the time to create a coping toolbox to prepare for the winter. Though there’s no fool-proof way of preventing SAD, a counseling professional can help teach you new survival strategies or refresh old coping skills.

If you live in Vancouver and struggle with Seasonal Affective Disorder, the Game of Thrones motto, “winter is coming,” takes on an entirely new meaning.  Savor the summer as a time of reprieve, and also use this time to gear up for the seasons ahead.