by Ciara Gorby
Summer is a time of year that many people look forward to, especially here in the Sunshine State. With warmer weather and longer days, it's a time when people often take vacations, spend more time outdoors, and get the opportunity to spend uninterrupted time with friends. However, for some people, summer- like winter- can be a difficult time for their mental health. Here, we can explore some of the mental health concerns that may arise during the summer and offer some strategies for coping.
Starting with the obvious…
FOMO (Fear of Missing Out)!
One of the biggest mental health concerns during the summer is FOMO. Social media is flooded with images of people having fun at the beach, going on vacations, and spending time with friends. It's easy to feel like you're missing out on all the fun if you're not doing those things yourself. This can lead to feelings of sadness, loneliness, and anxiety.
If you're experiencing FOMO, it's important to remember that social media often presents a distorted view of reality. People tend to share the best parts of their lives online, which can make it seem like everyone else is having more fun than you. Instead of comparing yourself to others, focus on your own experiences and what makes you happy.
Body Image Issues
Summer is also a time when people tend to be more conscious of their bodies. With more opportunities to wear swimsuits and shorts, it's easy to feel self-conscious about your appearance. Body image issues can lead to anxiety, depression, and disordered eating behaviors.
If you're struggling with body image issues, try to focus on the things that your body can do rather than how it looks. Engage in activities that make you feel good, whether that's swimming, hiking, or dancing. Surround yourself with people who support and uplift you, and avoid those who make you feel bad about yourself. Also, feel free to check out our last blog post on how to navigate negative body image for some additional tips and tricks!
Financial Stress
Summer can also be an expensive time of year. Between vacations, outdoor activities, and social events, it's easy to spend more money than you planned. Financial stress can lead to anxiety and depression, and may even put a strain on your relationships.
To manage financial stress, create a budget for the summer and stick to it. Look for free or low-cost activities that you can enjoy with friends and family. Talk to your loved ones about your financial concerns and ask for their support. Stay tuned for our next blog post on low-cost or free activities to keep you outside and entertained this summer to make sure your mental health can remain a priority.
Loneliness
While summer is often associated with socializing and having fun with friends, it can also be a lonely time for some people. If you're not able to travel or spend time with loved ones, it's easy to feel isolated and disconnected.
To combat loneliness, try to find ways to connect with others. Join a local club or group that shares your interests. Volunteer in your community. Reach out to friends and family members and make plans to spend time together. Even small connections can make a big difference in how you feel.
In conclusion, while summer can be a fun and exciting time, it can also be challenging for mental health. By being mindful of the potential stressors and taking proactive steps to manage them, you can enjoy all that summer has to offer while maintaining your mental and emotional wellbeing.
