10 Summer Activities to Help Improve and Support Your Mental Health
By: Dana Baker
The warmth, relaxation and flexibility that the summer months bring can be exciting for vacations and sunshine, but for some, summer months can have the potential to trigger feelings of being overwhelmed and losing control and structure. Expectations of being carefree can put a lot of pressure on those who may be struggling mentally.
How the Summer Affects Mental Health
One of the main ways the summer can help with mental health is through the sunshine. Because of the warmer weather, many of us spend more time outdoors, plus the sun is out for longer than in other seasons. The increased sun exposure boosts our vitamin D levels, and can even improve mood, leading to better mental health. Spending time in the sun also helps your body produce more melatonin (Sleep hormone) at night, allowing you to sleep better and overall feel better.
Below are some self-care tips that can be used to maintain your mental health during the summer months.
1. Learn a new skill (by yourself or with a friend!)
Learning something new provides a lot of benefits. The options are limitless when it comes to the skills you can work on this summer. Maybe this will be the summer you try learning how to rollerblade or try your hand at crocheting, or maybe learn how to garden, speak a different language, play an instrument, cook or bake something new. Wherever your interests lie, the summer is a great time to tap into them. You may just discover a new hobby!
2. Find a hiking or walking trail you've never been to
If you enjoy hiking or walking, finding a new trail can be a great way to help yourself engage in what summer has to offer and boost your mental health. According to the American Psychological Association, connecting with nature leads to a variety of benefits including "improved attention, lower stress, better mood, reduced risk of psychiatric disorders and even upticks in empathy and cooperation." You may find that this simple habit could have a significant impact on your summer and your mental health.
3. Meet up with a neighbor or friend to walk daily or weekly
Tack on the benefits of connection with others to the benefits of being in nature, and you have the perfect activity to improve and support your mental health this summer. Setting up a schedule to meet up with a friend who uplifts you can be a simple, yet effective, way to enjoy summer in the presence of someone you care about.
4. Maintain a healthy sleep schedule
Maintaining a consistent sleep schedule can help ensure you get adequate sleep. It is recommended that we (if possible) obtain 7-9 uninterrupted hours of sleep, as sleep hygiene is an essential component of our mental health.
5. Build a summer reading list and find new places to read
Maybe you have already been building your summer reading list, or maybe you don't consider yourself to be much of a reader at this point, so you aren't sure where to start. There are many book lists put there that can help you build your reading list- based on the type of books you like to read, authors you have enjoyed before, the length of book you are looking for. Goodreads, your local library, and even social media (Instagram and TikTok) are great places to look to build your list. Then, you can challenge yourself to read a little bit each day and even to find new places to read- coffee shops, parks, a beach.
6. Plant a vegetable or flower garden
Gardening can be a great hobby and something new to try. To see plants or flowers grow and bloom can give a sense of accomplishment and something to look forward to tending every day. It is another way to learn more about something that maybe you don’t know much about, as well to get outside each day.
7. Explore a local farmer's market
Many areas have local markets that pop up all throughout the summer. Urbana, IL has one every Saturday morning throughout the summer that I highly recommend if you are local to the area. Make it a point to check out a few of them, even if you don’t have the intention to buy anything. It gives the opportunity to connect with locals and the community and appreciate the hard work, heart, and stories behind the products they are selling. And it is a great way to support local businesses, all while enjoying the fresh summer air.
8. Commit to cleaning out and reorganizing one area of your home
There are studies that show a correlation between “disorganization, clutter, and mental health conditions, including, depression, anxiety, and stress.” Many of these same studies find that decluttering and cleaning can boost your mood, improve focus, and help you feel more in control of your surroundings. Committing to tidying up at least one space in your home can be an easy, attainable way to improve your mental health this summer.
9. Attend Community Events
Check your community’s website and search social media events that are happening in your area. Most areas have festivals, markets, concerts, fundraisers, events for kids (if you have littles), and more by doing this. It is a great way to get plugged into your community and to bolster up your summer schedule if that’s something you are looking to do.
10. Go U-Picking
Berry or flower picking is a fun, inexpensive way to enjoy being outside in the summertime. They are fun, easy activities that you could do by yourself or with someone else. Check the picking seasons for fruits and flowers in your area, and make a plan to can, bake with, or give away some of what you pick.
Embracing Summer for Mental Wellness
These activities are a small drop in the bucket of potential ways to boost and support your mental health this summer. From lowering anxiety to enhancing your mood, small changes can make a big difference in the overall state of your mental health and wellbeing. Start with an activity that resonates with you, make this summer one where you find joy in everyday activities and moments, and reduce stress, boost your mood and improve your mental health in the process.
And remember to set boundaries for yourself. You don't have to say yes to every opportunity you are presented with. Seek out the activities and plans that seem the best to you and take them when you need them.
Are you feeling like you need someone to talk to? Interested in giving therapy a try? Worried about the Summer and creating new goals/hobbies? Give us a call today or send an email to schedule an appointment.
Resources to learn more:
https://centerstone.org/our-resources/health-wellness/strengthening-mental-health-in-summer/
https://cedarwaytherapy.com/10-summer-activities-that-promote-mental-wellness/
https://discoverymood.com/blog/mental-health-during-the-summer/
https://www.apa.org/monitor/2024/06/protecting-mental-health-summer
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ChampaignCounseling.com is an informational site. The resources on this site are provided for informational purposes only and should not be used to replace the specialized training and professional judgment of a health care or mental health care professional.
Champaign Counseling LLC cannot be held responsible for the use of the information provided. Please always consult a trained mental health professional before making any decision regarding treatment of yourself or others.
Self-help information and information from the Internet is useful, but it is not a substitute for professional assistance. Please seek professional help immediately:
· if you have thoughts of killing (or otherwise harming) yourself or others
· if you are gravely disabled (unable to care for yourself);
· if you are abusing substances;
· or if you or someone else is in any danger of harm.
The sole purpose of the ChampaignCounseling.com blog is to offer resources and information to those dealing with mental health issues. We cannot, and will not, assume the role of your physician or therapist.
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