How to Care for Your Mental Health in Summer

Summer is one of the most enjoyable times of the year for many. The weather warms up, and the days get longer, offering lots of time and opportunities to gather with friends and family. There are plenty of pool days, barbecues, family vacations, and more to keep you enjoying the summer season. However, some people experience summer anxiety which makes this time of the year far less enjoyable.

Experiencing challenges with your mental health in summer isn’t as common as those who struggle during the winter months. Still, the expectations to spend your time outside and around people for an Instagram-worthy life can make it stressful to rise to the occasion. What can you do to care for your mental health during the summer if you deal with summer anxiety?

Mental Health in Summer: Eight Dimensions of Well-being

Your mental health is made up of many different components. If you’re struggling with summer anxiety, there are a few ways you can work through it. Tending to each component of your mental health is an important way to work on your mental health in the summer.

• • Emotional: Trying to balance all of your summer obligations can lead to anxiety and stress. Be sure you take time to practice coping skills and self-care so you can keep your summer anxiety at bay and manage your mental health.
  • Environmental: Spending too much time outside your home environment may leave you feeling nervous and disoriented. Carve out time to spend in spaces and environments where you feel safe and comfortable.
  • Financial: Between vacations, concerts, and simple gatherings with friends, the financial obligations of summer can add up quickly. Set a daily, weekly, or monthly budget to keep your financial stresses at bay.
  • Intellectual: Intellectual stimulation is important any time of the year, but it’s especially important during down periods. Find something to keep your brain engaged and occupied during the summer months so you can expand your knowledge.
  • Occupational: Work is only one part of your occupational well-being. Pouring all of your energy into work is a draining approach to life. Find somewhere you can volunteer your services in another avenue to switch things up.
  • Physical: Keeping your body moving is crucial, even when the hot summer months leave you feeling tempted to spend all of your time inside. Be sure to prioritize your physical well-being, and the effects on your mental health in summer will be noticeable.
  • Social: Although alone time is important, spending too much time on your own can also have negative effects. Carve out time to spend with your friends, family, and other loved ones to keep your social battery charged.
  • Spiritual: Spiritual health is as important as your physical and mental health. Finding ways to connect with the world around you and remain grounded in the present moment are important.

Managing Summer Anxiety

Keeping a positive mindset during the summertime can be tough on your own. If you need help managing your summer anxiety, a mental health treatment program like those at Clearview Treatment Centers is a good choice.

We take an individualized and understanding approach to care and equip you with the tools and skills you need to manage your mental health in the summer. Call us at 310-455-5258 or submit an online contact form to learn more about our programs today!