Is it possible to feel gloomy even when school’s out, the sun is shining, and good humor is in the air? For those who have clinical depression, the answer is, unfortunately, yes. The symptoms of depression do not necessarily abate just because the weather’s good. Mental health disorders do not take summer vacations.
For those experiencing symptoms of depression during the summer season, however, there are ways to combat the blues and to put your mental health first.
Consider just a few of these suggestions.
- Do not isolate yourself. Surround yourself with people who love and encourage you. Be intentional in socialization. Get out hang out with your friends and others who support your recovery.
- Make plans to do something fun. Take a small vacation, a road trip, or just a single day spent doing something you love. Give yourself something to look forward to and get excited about.
- Stick to a schedule. If you are the kind of person who does well with structure, summer can sometimes be more difficult. Create structure for yourself by coming up with a basic plan for your days, and then stick with it.
- Get plenty of sleep. Make sure you are getting at least eight hours a night, and try to go to bed and wake up at about the same time each day, whenever possible. Sleep is so important for mental health!
- Do not let the heat get the better of you. Stay hydrated. Drink plenty of water, especially on days where you are engaged in outdoor activities.
- Take up a new hobby or activity. Learn to do something new this summer. Stretch yourself. Challenge yourself. Enrich yourself.
Depression may not take a summer vacation, but that does not mean there are not ways for you to counteract those summer blues.