Summer may look like beach days and BBQs on social media, specially if you live in Florida. However, for many people, summer brings restlessness, fatigue or even unexpected sadness. We often associate seasonal sadness with the winter months but for many, the slowing in pace can bring the summer blues.
Truth is, and surprisingly so, that summer can bring emotional lows for some people. It is not always sunshine and happiness. Longer days, unstructured routines, heat and social comparison can contribute to “summer blues”. Social media can highlight others going on a vacation while we still have to stay behind.
You are not alone and we are here to help! Here are some practical tooks and mind-body tips that can help you maintain your mental energy and emotional balance during the summer season.
Understanding the Summer Blues
How are the “summer blues” different from Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD)? Unlike SAD, which usually happens during the winter months due to environmental and psychological changes, the summer blues tend to happen during the summer months. You would think that brighter and longer days could help someone feel better but the truth is that some people genuinely experience some sadness when these months approach.
While there is no specific cause for the summer blues, some of the causes for low energy or mood in the summer are:
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Disrupted routines or lack of structure
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Pressure to be social and “make the most” of the season
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Body image concerns (pool parties, social media, etc.)
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Heat and poor sleep
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Loneliness or grief (missing loved ones, transitions)
It is not uncommon for individuals to stop attending therapy during the summer months. However, the truth is that mental health has no “off-season.” In fact, despite the sunshine and slower pace, it is still very common for people to struggle emotionally during this time. Therefore, continuing mental health care through the summer can be just as important as in any other season.
Daily Habits That Support Mental Energy
Uplifting your mood during the summer months does not have to be complicated. Here are some practical strategies that you can implement on a daily basis that can help you boost your mood and fight the fatigue:
- Get Sunlight Smartly
- 10–15 minutes of morning sunlight to regulate sleep and mood
- Use sunglasses and stay hydrated to avoid heat-related fatigue
- Stick to a Sleep Routine
- Summer travel and late nights can throw off sleep—aim for consistency
- Limit caffeine and screens at night
- Eat Mood-Boosting Foods
- Light, whole foods: fresh fruits, leafy greens, nuts, and omega-3-rich options
- Avoid excess sugar and alcohol, which can increase sluggishness
- Stay Hydrated
- Dehydration = irritability and fatigue
- Add citrus or herbs to make water more appealing
Reignite Purpose and Structure
Summer seasons leave us with lack of structure naturally due to the end of school. Having a structure helps reduce anxiety and increase motivation. Here are some tips to create that structure:
- Create a Simple Weekly Routine: Your routine doesn’t have to complicated. In fact, simplicity helps us carry through with it. Make sure to include self-care, movement, social time, and quiet time as part of your summer routine. Using a planner or app to schedule rest and activity can help this process.
- Set Mini Goals: Summer can be used as a reset. You can take this time to start a short-term project, a new hobby or practice an old coping skill, such as journaling. These small but mighty goals can help you shift focus away from comparison and move towards personal fulfillment.
- Declutter and Reset Your Space: Having a tidy environment helps have a clearer mind. Take one day or two to re-organize a space in your home that was otherwise difficult to get to due to the business of fall and spring.
Cultivate Connection and Joy
Due to the slower pace and less commitments, loneliness and isolation can be amplified during this summer seasons. How can you cultivate connection and joy by creating life-giving moments with others:
- Schedule simple Meetups: Simple meet ups can look like going on a walk with a friend, coffee dates, game nights, or lunch outdoors. They can also be quick virtual catchups for long-distance loved ones.
- Prioritize Fun: Sometimes we forget what is like to be a kid. Adding joy to our lives is a valid form of self-care. Simple things, such as watching a comedy show, visiting a theme park, or dancing in your kitchen can add up to create joy in your life. You don’t have to wait for a full two week vacation. Add micro moments of joy to your days.
- Talk It Out: Name your emotions. Talk to someone you trust. If you need additional support, Name your emotions and talk to someone you trust, therapy is a great space to explore these feelings
Know When to Reach Out for Support
If the summer blues persist or worst, it is time to seek professional support. Some of the signs to look out for include, extended sadness, anxiety, sleep issues, hopelessness, or loss of interest. Therapy can help you uncover the root causes, develop coping skills and bring clarity. You don’t need to struggle alone.
📆 Ready to feel more like yourself again? Schedule an appointment with our compassionate team today. Call us at (407) 906-5214.
Need more reasons to book an appointment? Read our blog on 5 Compelling Reasons to start Therapy this Summer.
Note: While I am a mental health professional, this information is not a substitute for a formal evaluation. If you or someone you know is struggling with mental health, please reach out at (407) 906-5214 to schedule an appointment for tailored support.
Mental health is a complex and highly individualized matter, and what works for one person may not work for another. The best course of action for anyone dealing with mental health concerns is to schedule an appointment with us for a personalized assessment, diagnosis, and treatment options. Please remember that seeking help from a licensed mental health expert is a vital step in addressing mental health challenges.
If you’re in crisis or experiencing thoughts of self-harm or suicide, contact emergency services or a crisis helpline immediately.
This blog post was written with the assistance of AI.
