While for most people, the summer is a time of sun, fun and frolics, for others the warm summer months can lead to sadness, introspection and tears.
Anyone whose life is not exactly where they want it to be right now could be at risk of Summer Blubbin', as they compare their current lot in life with the joy of their friends, or remember happier summers in their own lives that they can not return to.
Most of us have a lot of happy summer memories, from seemingly endless summers off school, as a child, playing with our friends, to holidays, romances and adventures as an adult.
People are generally cheered by their happy memories, but for some, the contrast with where they are now is too much to bear. Reminiscing makes them feel worse.
The long summer nights are often accompanied by alcohol, which can exacerbate feelings of depression, and seeing others happy and carefree can also lead to more melancholy feelings.
Subjects that are the most likely to make people depressed during the summer are lack of money, being single or having relationship problems.
Money worries really do take their toll in the summer months. People are a lot more sociable when the weather is warm, and they want to get out and do things. Seeing your friends swanning off on day trips, holidays and nights out can lead to sadness and resentment if you're strapped for cash.
If you're not happy with your relationship status, this can can also be unforgivingly highlighted, as you watch adoring couples strolling together in the sun or canoodling in the park.
Dissatisfaction with your life can catch you unawares in the summer. You except to feel cheered by the sun, but instead you're moping about or feeling unsettled. So what's the cure for the summertime blues?
Five Tips to Stop Summer Blubbin'
1 - Always focus on the positives in life, rather than dwelling on the negatives. If you're broke, focus instead on the incredible friendships you have, or your supportive family.
2 - Practise gratitude: if you think you're having a tough time, be thankful for what you do have, which is more than a lot of people. Stop feeling sorry for yourself - you have food and shelter, and many more things which others are less fortunate to have. Make a list of all the things you have to be thankful for.
3 - Remember that your self-esteem is not based on what you have, or where you are in life. Real self-esteem lies in your value as a human being, and that can not be bought or achieved with status. You are worthy because you are a part of the human race.
4 - Do what's effective: if you know that wallowing will make you feel bad, then don't do it. Instead, concentrate on making life the best it can be right now. Stay in the present - it's the only thing you can truly affect right now.
5 - If you are unhappy with where you are in life, then set goals and plan a series of steps to attain those goals to get to where you want to be. A Life Coach can help you with that.
So dry your eyes, get out in the sunshine and make the most of summer 2012. Life is worth living only if you live it.