6 Ways to Cure the Summertime Blues
Move over Alan Jackson, I’m hear to tell you that YES, there is indeed a cure for the summer time blues! Or at least a good-hearted, strong effort to work through it. This time of year the days are long, the sun is bright, the temperature is hot - and here in Texas, VERY, very, hot. Some associate the summer days with fun, joy, and relaxing poolside. But for some, the summer months can be not as bright. If this is you, you may find yourself bored, restless, melancholic, depressed and sad…aka…the “summer time blues.”
You can read more about it in this article from Texas Monthly by clicking here.
You might be wondering why this happens or feeling alone in this while everyone around you is frolicking in the sun. Fortunately, there are strategies and activities that can help manage these feelings and help make the most of the season and rekindle a little bit of joy during the sun-drenched months.
So who is Alan Jackson and what are the summertime blues?
Alan Jackson is one of the greatest country stars of the 90’s. If you’re too young to remember his hit song about the “summertime blues", I suggest doing a quick google search - give it a listen and have a qui. Most people think of seasonal sadness occurring in the winter time, but research actually suggests (found via Texas Monthly) that 30% of people experience an increase in depressive or anxiety-like symptoms in the summer months as well. Here are a few reasons why -
Unrealistic Expectations: Social media platforms inundate your feed with pictures of perfect vacations, women in bikinis, and exciting adventures, making you think that if you aren’t doing these things there is something wrong and feelings of inadequacy. Genuine happiness is not measured by the number of Instagram-worthy moments, but by finding contentment within yourself and the life YOU have created and find joyful.
FOMO (is this still a thing?): For my 35+ friends, FOMO = the Fear Of Missing Out. With BBQs, summer concerts, poolside parties, and trips to the beach, this FOMO can be strong. Not being part of all the activities can create anxiety and a sense of isolation. Prioritize events that align with your interests and values and don’t be afraid to say “no.” You get to choose how you spend your summer - make sure it reflects both your wants and needs.
Weather-Related Challenges: The seemingly endless sweltering heat can be incredibly exhausting and uncomfortable - nobody likes walking outside into an oven! It drains energy levels and reduces motivation leading to an increase in isolation. I know for me it’s hard to leave my house when it gets above 95 degrees. A work around is to plan activities during cooler hours and find indoor activities like museums, bookstores, movie theaters or creative indoor hobbies to find relief relief from the heat in ways that are engaging.
Routine Disruptions: Schedules get disrupted leading lack of structure and stress. This can cause you to feel aimless but it can be a great opportunity to embrace flexibility. Learning a new skill or pursuing a new hobby . Small ways to re-structuring your time can bring a sense of purpose and accomplishment, benefitting your mental health.
Signs you might be feeling a little more low than usual
Restless
Agitation
Difficulty sleeping
Appetite changes
Anxiety
Low energy
Feeling depressed
What can you do about it?
Here are a few things to try if you find yourself feeling a little “bluesy” -
Go outside - no, really
Being outdoors in the summer CAN be enjoyable. The daylight hours are long leaving lots of opportunity to be in nature when it’s a little cooler and get your Vitamin D. Try out hiking, swimming, biking, or walking during the cooler hours of the day. Nature is incredible grounding and body movements reduces stress, anxiety, and boosts mood. can make a huge difference. Utilize the time in the morning or the evening when the sun isn’t so hot and more bearable.
Learn a new hobby and engage in your interests
The summer months tend to move a little slower, providing time and opportunity to try out “that thing” you’ve always wanted to learn. Think - crocheting, painting, gardening, cooking, video games or playing a musical instrument. Most city’s have tons of local classes or workshops, and there’s definitely not a shortage of online tutorials these days…I mean, you can learn pretty much anything on YouTube!
Plan Social Activities to your Liking
If there seems to be a shortage, take it upon yourself to plan a picnic, barbecue, movie nights (all of which can also be done indoors if it’s too hot or if the mosquitoes are laying into you). Spending time with others can alleviate feelings of loneliness or boredom. Also consider volunteering for community events or organizations.
Be a tourist or go on a daytrip
Be a tourist in your own city! Visit museums, art galleries, historical landmarks, or local attractions you've always wanted to try or maybe only do so when you have visitors. Go on a day trip to a nearby town, park, or body of water and connect with playfulness and curiosity.
Prioritize Self-Care:
Take care of your mental and physical well-being. Find places to move your body such as the gym or another indoor facility if it is too hot outside. I have to get up an hour earlier in the summer to walk but I do it because it’s crucial for my mental (and physical) well-being. Stay on top of the basics - good sleep, yummy meals, body movement. Medication, yoga, journaling are all also great options to try out in the summer if you’ve been meaning to do so.
Set Realistic Goals:
Small goals during the summer can provide some structure and direction. Try a reading challenge, a new fitness activity, or nailing that dance move you’ve always wanted to try. Celebrate your progress along the way and be kind to yourself if you experience setbacks.
Above all else - play and have fun.
Bottom line
The summertime can be a bit of a bummer for some people. It’s hot, routines are disrupted, the days are long. It can also be a time to re-connect with yourself and try out something new. While it might be easy to want to isolate and be in the air conditioning, don’t forget to find ways of getting outside that’s pleasant and while also reaching out to your friends and family to nurture social connections and keep the blues at bay.
Therapy can help
If you feel like you’re getting stuck along the way or want more guided support, it may be time to seek a consultation with a therapist. Contact Real Well Therapy here or call 512-686-7009.
Want to learn more about how anxiety therapy can help you? Click here!
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