We are fast approaching summer and understand that it can be one of the most challenging times for parents and families. While a lack of routine, more free time, and less structure, feels like heaven to some, it can be stressful and difficult for others. So we wanted to provide you with five of our favorite tips for taking care of your mental health this summer.
Set a goal
Setting a goal or several for summer can be a great way to add a bit of structure and routine into this time. These goals could be anything from learning a new song, or going for a walk regularly, to learning a new language or running a marathon. Setting goals can provide a sense of purpose, and a productive way to spend your free time.
Maintain a consistent sleep schedule
We all know how easy it is when we don’t have any plans for the following day, to stay up until 2 o’clock in the morning and not get out of bed until 11. While this can seem like a great way to make the most of the summer, it’s not necessarily the best. Keeping a consistent sleep schedule of going to bed and waking up at your regular time can help in maintaining some structure and routine throughout the summer. It will also be a lot easier to get back into the swing of things when you have to start getting up at 6 am again!
Make time for you
This one’s for the parents out there. We understand that during the summer it can be crazy with rushing the kids off to their friends’ houses, to activities and generally trying to keep them entertained. However, it’s important to take time for yourself in order to look after your mental health. That could mean going for a walk by yourself while your kids are out, or getting someone else to take them to an activity so you can sit at home and watch that Netflix show you’re loving, or even something as small as dancing around the kitchen while you cook dinner. Just making sure you have some time for yourself can be key in taking care of yourself this summer.
Try out something new!
What better time to try out something new than the summer? If there’s something you’ve always wanted to learn, be it rock climbing, baking, playing the piano or joining a club, trying something new and meeting new people is one of the best ways to look after yourself this summer. This could even be one of your summer goals!
Relax
This might sound simple, and an obvious one, but taking time to relax is crucial in looking after your mental health. Even with the abundance of free time you may have during the summer, often we forget to relax. Consider what you want to do this summer and make sure you make time for it. Maybe there’s a book you’ve been meaning to read for a while, or you want to get back into morning meditation. Even if you have to schedule in relaxation time into your diary, make it a priority.
Remember, professional help is always available if you need it. If you need more information, contact Counseling Works now to schedule an appointment. You’re not alone this summer.
