Summer is typically perceived as a time of joy, relaxation, and soaking up the sun. But for some of us, there are mental health challenges that come with the increase in heat, disruption to typical routines, and more features of this season.
When we think of seasonal mood disorders, the winter slump is normally what we think of. In the winter, shorter days mean less sunlight and less Vitamin D – and that has a profound impact on our wellbeing. So shouldn’t that mean the opposite is true during the summer? In some ways, yes. Summer can be a positive time that does wonders for our mental health. That said, it is important to practice healthy and balanced living in order to make the most of the sunshine.
In this article, we will explore some common mental health challenges that can arise in the summer months. Plus, we will share expert advice from our Maryland wellness center to discuss preventing these concerns in order to enjoy a fulfilling, rejuvenating summer.
How Does Summer Impact Mental Health?
Summer is not all rainbows and unicorns… Or should we say sunshine and butterflies? For many individuals, the change in seasons and weather can catalyze mental health concerns. Let’s take a look at some of the ways that summer can impact mental and behavioral health.
#1: Heat-Related Stress
During the summer, high temperatures can lead to dehydration as well as physical discomfort. This discomfort can contribute to heightened anxiety symptoms. Overheating, which is scientifically known as “hyperthermia” can aggravate other attention deficit disorder symptoms as well, including difficulty concentrating.
So how can you avoid heat-related stress? First and foremost, make sure that you are drinking enough water. Additionally, consider taking a break indoors after you have been outside for a while. If it is available, take advantage of air conditioning to cool down your body.
#2: Increased Daylight
More sun sounds like a good thing, doesn’t it? Sunlight and Vitamin D can be highly beneficial for mental health, but too much daylight can also interfere with your sleep cycle. When you are not getting enough sleep, your mood and positive feelings will almost certainly suffer. As it stays light later into the evening and gets brighter earlier in the morning, your circadian rhythm can shift, and it takes time to adjust to these changes.
If you want to maintain a regular sleep cycle, try using blackout curtains in your bedroom. That can help you shut out unwanted light in the evenings, especially if you live in an area where the sun stays out into the night (for example, parts of Alaska see 24 hours of sunlight during the summer months).
#3: Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD)
We often associate seasonal affective disorder, or SAD, with the winter months – but in reality, it can be equally prominent in the summer. Symptoms of SAD include increased stress, sleep disturbances, irritability, fatigue, and frustration.
To help combat the effects of SAD in the summer, one strategy is identifying your summertime triggers. Whether it is heat-related discomfort, financial stressors related to vacations or childcare, or stress around wearing more revealing clothing in the warm weather, knowing what may set you off and working on coping strategies with a licensed behavioral health professional can be the first step toward recovery.
#4: Financial Stressors
In the summer, financial stress can contribute to feelings of anxiety or depression. Why is this more of a concern in the summer months? Financial stress can heighten anxiety year-round, but in the summer, taking trips, paying for additional childcare, or spending money on summer camp for children can take a toll on your wallet.
If you are feeling stressed about your finances, you are not alone. Financial wellness is part of the holistic health model, so financial planning and budgeting may help relieve these concerns.
#5: Body Image Issues
In the summer, tank tops and bathing suits abound – and if you are not feeling confident in the way you look, the expectation to wear more revealing clothes can be a source of stress. Just remember this: Every body is a beach body! And confidence is the most attractive quality you can have.
If summer has you feeling anxious about the way you look, taking small steps toward change is one of the best ways to buoy your confidence. Committing to a short walk each day, a balanced breakfast, or a yoga or meditation practice is a great first step. If your body image issues are escalating, it might be time to talk to a Maryland mental health provider – and there is no shame in getting the support you need!
#6: New Routines
Summer can bring some disruption to our lives with new routines and changing schedules. However, routines are an important part of mental wellbeing and consistent routines can be helpful for those with many types of behavioral challenges (for instance, people with autism and ADHD strongly benefit from routines).
While your previous routines might have changed, you can still establish new ones. Making sure your day follows a predictable schedule can help ease the anxiety prompted by change.
#7: Medication Adherence
During the summer, travel and changing routines have the potential to disrupt medication adherence. Remember, it is crucial to take your medication exactly as prescribed – and missing a day or two is not advisable. So as you create those new summertime routines, ensure that medication management is part of your daily structure.
Wondering how to stay on top of your medication during the summer months? Ensure that you refill your prescriptions in advance of any travel. If you feel like your medication is not working as well as it used to, it is important to check in with your behavioral health provider to ensure your dosage and usage instructions are still accurate for you.
Make the Most of Your Summer
If you are looking to live life to the fullest this summer, it is essential to prioritize your mental health and wellbeing. But remember, you are not in this alone. If you need additional support, do not hesitate to contact a local behavioral health provider. If you are in the Maryland area, our team at Triumph Behavioral Health is here to help.
Let’s talk – reaching out is the first step toward living your most fulfilling life. Contact us here.