By Jourdan Bartels, LPC-Associate
Supervised by Jennifer Buffalo, LPC-S, LMFT
As a born and raised Texan and a mental health provider based in Austin, I have seen first-hand the many ways the summer time can affect folks’ mental health and overall wellbeing. The heat is brutal, y’all, and while some people thrive in the sunshine no matter the temperature, others may really struggle to spend time doing things they typically enjoy when we’re nearing 100 degrees most days. To combat this conundrum, here are some ideas for Texas Summer Specific Coping and Self-care Strategies!
1. Stay Cool and Attend to your Basic Needs. The Texas heat can be intense, often leading to discomfort and irritability. Physical discomfort can significantly impact mental well-being, so it's crucial to manage your environment and hydration:
- Stay indoors during peak heat: Be strategic and try to schedule outdoor activities in the early morning or late evening when temperatures are cooler.
- Hydrate regularly: Dehydration can cause mood swings and fatigue. Keep a water bottle with you and sip throughout the day.
2. Maintain Social Connections. Summer often brings more social opportunities, whether it is a barbecue by the pool or family reunion. While these can be wonderful and nourishing, they can also be overwhelming for some. Balancing social engagements with personal time is key:
- Set boundaries: It’s okay to say no to events if you’re feeling overwhelmed. Prioritize your mental health and only participate in activities that you genuinely enjoy and have capacity for.
- Stay connected: Even if you can’t attend every event, stay in touch with friends and family through phone calls or video chats to maintain your support network.
3. Embrace a Flexible Routine. During the summer, regular schedules often shift due to vacations, children being out of school, or the desire to take advantage of the longer days. While a break from routine can be refreshing, it can also lead to feelings of disorientation or stress. Embracing a flexible routine can help you stay grounded:
- Set small daily goals: Instead of a strict schedule, aim for a list of achievable daily tasks. This approach maintains a sense of purpose without the pressure of rigid timelines that may be characteristic of other seasons.
- Prioritize self-care: Make time for activities that nourish your mind and body, such as reading, meditation, or a hobby you love.
4. Engage in Outdoor Activities Safely. Connecting with nature can be incredibly restorative for mental health. In the scorching summers, it’s vital to modify outdoor activity to accommodate our physical needs in the heat.
- Consider time and temperature: Check the weather forecast to plan around the peak temperatures if you’re planning to spend time outside. If you can, plan a way to take breaks from the heat, whether that’s in an air-conditioned space, in the shade, or in water.
- Water activities: Swimming, kayaking, or visiting a nearby lake can be fun and provide a break from the heat. If staying home is more your style, maybe set up a sprinkler in the backyard!
5. Seek Professional Support. If you find that summer challenges are affecting your mental health significantly, don’t hesitate to seek professional help. A mental health therapist can provide personalized strategies and support to navigate the season.
- Teletherapy options: Many therapists offer virtual sessions, making it convenient to receive support from the comfort of your home.
Remember, you’re not alone if summers are hard for you. There’s a lot of talk about seasonal depression in the winter months, but it can (and does) occur in the summer, too! If this resonates with you, and you’d like to talk to one of our Texas-based therapists, reach out to us for a free consultation at contact@luminarycounseling.com. Stay cool, y’all!
