While most people associate summer with care-free fun and time spent outdoors, those expectations may not be a reality for everyone.
For some, summer can be a surprisingly busy season with responsibilities and work. For others, a lack of backyard gatherings or adventures on the calendar can be a glaring void. One of the hardest parts about summer is that it doesn’t feel right to be overwhelmed or bogged down when the weather is so nice. Not to mention you can’t go on social media without seeing someone looking as though they are having a better day than you, rocking a bathing suit better than you think you could, and the list of comparisons goes on and on.
We understand all of the triggers that summer can bring with it; and they are completely normal. Below are some tips to help you have an enjoyable summer season:
- Stop comparing. This is so difficult because we usually cannot prevent it, but comparison can derail your day quickly. You may be having a nice day but after a quick scroll through Instagram or Facebook your joy may be replaced by the feeling that your friends or family members are having a “better day” than you. If you can’t help but compare, try to avoid social media. Also, when you feel down about events in your life, remind yourself of everything you have to be thankful for.
- Slow down. We tend to move at a rapid pace during the summer, hoping to soak up every free second we have. This can be draining to our energy and catches up to us quickly. Remember to slow your pace, make time for yourself – settle into a good book, or go for a walk to clear your head.
- Get outside. There are so many benefits of getting outside for fresh air. Not only does being outside boost your energy, but it’s proven to lessen anxiety and improve your sleep. Here are some exciting activities you can try this summer to make this the best summer yet.
- Become more organized. Keeping things in order is a great way to alleviate stress. However, when summer rolls around we realize we may not have been as organized as we should have been when last summer ended. We find ourselves searching through bags to find an empty bottle of sunscreen or can’t find our favorite bathing suit. It can be a struggle to keep the rest of your life organized during the summer, as well. Employ habits of organization to help avoid that stress, such as creating a designated space for your summertime gear and discarding items that have not been used for multiple seasons. Lean on your partner, family or friends for responsibilities and reminders where needed.
- Be present in each moment. Put aside distractions whenever you can, and do your best to focus on the day at hand rather than worry about the next day’s stressors. It’s not easy to do; everyone struggles with this practice, but that’s exactly what it is – something to practice. The more you are intentional about being present in the moment, the better you will feel. This will help in all aspects of life, from relationships to business, to exercise and reducing stress.
By being intentional about expectations and plans, the summer season can be a relaxing time of year for everyone. If you or a loved one is suffering from a mental health disorder, contact a treatment facility for help. To learn more about the breadth of services offered at Havenwood Behavioral Health, visit havenwoodbehavioral.com/or call us at (864) 660-6217. With proper treatment and support, you can overcome mental illness.