Here are some tips to help you prioritize your mental health, stay grounded and enjoy all that summer has to offer.
Maintain a Healthy Routine
The shift from structured schedules to open-ended days can be disorienting, especially for children, teens, and individuals managing mental health conditions. While some flexibility is healthy, completely abandoning your routine can affect sleep, energy levels, and mood.
Get Outside (Mindfully)
Sunlight can boost serotonin levels, improve sleep cycles, and elevate your mood. However, overexposure or intense heat can have the opposite effect, especially for those prone to anxiety or sensory sensitivity.
- Take morning walks or sit in a shaded area during cooler times of the day
- Try grounding exercises while outdoors, like walking barefoot in grass or focusing on nature sounds
- Schedule downtime and relaxing activities just as you would appointments
Balance Social and Solo Time
Summer often comes with more social invitations - barbecues, family vacations, and community events. While connection is important, it’s okay to say no when you need a break.
- Practice assertiveness with boundaries (e.g., “I’d love to come, but I’ll just stop by for an hour.”)
- Schedule recovery time after social events
- Carve out solo moments for journalling, reading, or quiet reflection
Continue Mental Health Support
Many people pause therapy during summer due to travel or scheduling conflicts, but staying connected to support is crucial.
- Ask your therapist about virtual sessions if you’ll be out of town
- If you’ve never tried therapy, summer is a great time to begin, especially with the added emotional space the season can bring
- Use apps or digital journals to track your emotions and reflect between sessions
Watch for Seasonal Triggers
Not everyone finds summer relaxing. For some, it brings reminders of loss, trauma, or body image stress. Others may experience seasonal affective disorder, in reverse - feeling low energy and irritability due to the heat.
If you notice any of the following, it might be time to speak to a mental health professional:
- Increased anxiety or sadness
- Changes in sleep or appetite
- Avoidance of activities you usually enjoy
Make Joy a Priority
Mental health isn’t just about preventing or managing challenges - it’s about nurturing joy. Use this season to reconnect with what lights you up.
- Try something new (like painting outdoors or kayaking)
- Visit places that calm or energize you
- Reclaim play: fly a kite, have a picnic, or chase fireflies
Your mental health matters every season. If you or a loved one needs support this summer, we’re here to help.
If you think you or someone you know is in immediate danger, call the Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 988 immediately and follow up with a professional.