10 Tips for Managing Mental Health During The Summer

 Discover 10 simple tips to manage your mental health during the summer from a therapist in California. Learn about how spending time in the sun, planning time off, staying active, and seeking help when you need it can benefit you in this Summer season.

Summer can be hard. School is out, kids are home, and everyone seems to be on vacation.

Social media makes it look like everyone else is having the perfect summer. The heat might also be keeping you indoors and mess up your routines. This can make you feel a bit out of sorts.

This is why caring for your mental health in the summer is very important!

Let’s talk about 10 easy tips to help you stay happy and healthy this summer.

1. Get in the Sun

Spending time in the sun can make you feel better. Getting in the Sunlight is a form of grounding that gives you Vitamin D, which helps your mood. Remember to protect your skin as needed with items you know work best for you- mineralized sunscreen or coverings that are made to block harmful sun rays.

A short walk outside can help. If you can, try to spend a little time each day in the sunshine. It’s a simple way to lift your spirit.

2. Plan a Little Time Off

Take a break. You don’t have to go far. Even a day at home doing what you love can help you relax. Find time to do activities that make you happy. This could be reading a book, spending some time self-reflecting and writing in a journal, or even taking a nap. Taking time off helps you recharge and feel more emotional peace.

3. Spend Time with Family and Friends

Being with family and friends can be good for your mental health. Plan outings, gatherings, or simple picnics. These moments bring joy and support. You can play games, share meals, or even just talk. These connections help you feel like you’re not alone, and they can make your summer more enjoyable.

4. Assess Your Goals for This Year

Do you remember those goals you set at the beginning of the year?!

It’s time to look at them! See how far you’ve come. Celebrate your progress and think about what you still want to achieve. This reflection can be motivating. It reminds you of your hard work and helps you stay focused on what’s important. It’s a good way to boost your confidence.

5. Set New Goals

After checking your old goals, set new ones for the rest of the year. Having something to work toward can keep you motivated and focused. These goals don’t have to be big. They can be small and manageable, like learning a new skill or improving upon an existing hobby. This will help give you a sense of purpose and direction for the next 6 months.

6. Stay Active

Exercise is so good for you, and it’s great for your mood! Find activities you enjoy, like swimming, biking, taking a dance or Pilates class. Exercise releases endorphins, which make you feel happy. Stay active every day, even if it’s just for a few minutes. Physical activity helps reduce stress and anxiety, and it’s a key part of staying healthy.

7. Drink Water and Eat Healthy

Good food and staying hydrated are important. Drink lots of ionized or filtered water, especially when it’s hot. Eat a nutrient dense diet with fruits, vegetables, healthy fats, and non-GMOs. Healthy eating can improve your mood and energy levels. Avoid too much refined sugar and empty calorie/ ultra processed food that can make you feel sluggish and down.

8. Practice Relaxation

Engage in relaxation activities like deep breathing, integrative massage, or meditation. These can help you feel calm and reduce stress. If meditation is hard for you, you can also do activities like listening to inspirational/ uplifting music, drawing, sauna, or taking a warm bath. Relaxation helps clear your mind and makes you feel more at ease. When you are at ease, your mind is free to create and produce great things.

9. Keep a Flexible Routine

Flexibility is key during the summer! It’s a time for fun and relaxation. Rearrange your schedule so you don’t feel overwhelmed. Plan your day, leaving room for spontaneous activities. This way, you can stay organized without feeling too stressed. It’s all in your mindset. Allow yourself the space to have things go differently than you planned and still enjoy your experience.

10. Ask for Help if You Need It

If even after trying all these things, you’re still feeling overwhelmed, reach out.

If you’re struggling with your mental health, remember, it’s okay to ask for help. Therapists, like me, can give you support and help you manage stress and anxiety.

Start taking care of yourself well before school is back in session. There is no better time than the summer!

I’m here and ready to support you! Schedule a free consultation today.