As the days start to stretch out and the sun stays longer in the sky, summer can bring a sense of relief, freedom and possibility. The grey winter days of feeling blah, ambivalent, or unmotivated seem far behind us and were no doubt eager for the energy and mood lift. It can feel tempting to jump at this freedom and put the type 2 self care on hold.
We totally get this TGIS (thank-god-it’s-summer) mindset, However, we’d also like to turn your mind towards a new concept that could have a positive domino effect on your mental health.
The influx of energy, mood and mental capacity all make summer an incredible time for reflection and preventative self care. While the idea of seeking counselling might not be the first thing that comes to mind when you think of summer, it can actually be an incredibly beneficial time to invest in your mental health and well-being. Here’s why.
Preventive Maintenance: Similar to how we visit the dentist for regular check-ups to prevent dental issues, counselling can serve as preventive maintenance for our mental health. By addressing concerns proactively and developing healthy coping mechanisms, individuals can reduce the risk of more serious mental health issues down the road. Summer provides an ideal opportunity to prioritize self-care and invest in one’s overall well-being.
Time for Reflection and Growth: Summer often provides a break from the usual routines of work or school. With this extra time, you might enjoy the opportunity to reflect on your life, goals, and emotions without the added stressors of daily responsibilities. Counselling during the summer can help you explore their thoughts and feelings, identify areas for growth, and develop strategies for positive change.
Processing Transitions: For many, summer marks a period of transition. Whether it’s graduating from school, starting a new job, or experiencing changes in relationships, transitions can bring about a range of emotions, from excitement to anxiety. Counselling can provide a supportive space to navigate these transitions, explore feelings of uncertainty, and develop coping mechanisms for managing change.
Addressing Seasonal Challenges: While summer is often associated with fun and relaxation, it can also present its own set of challenges. For some, the longer days and increased social activities can exacerbate feelings of loneliness or isolation. In a society entrenched in diet culture, many folks struggle with body image as they navigate toxic “bikini body/ diet culture” messages. Counselling can offer a safe and non-judgmental environment to address these challenges, develop self-confidence, and cultivate healthier coping strategies.
Building Resilience: Just as physical exercise strengthens our muscles, counselling can help build emotional resilience. By working with a therapist to identify and challenge negative thought patterns, individuals can learn to adapt to life’s challenges with greater ease and resilience. Investing in counselling over the summer can equip individuals with valuable tools and skills to navigate future stressors more effectively.
While summer is often associated with fun and relaxation (and we encourage these things too!) it can also be a time of growth, reflection, and preventative self care. Investing in yourself during the summer months can help give you a head start on building your mental health toolkit for future challenges and transitions. Those who invest in preventative mental health care when things are good rather than coming to counselling in crisis develop greater long term resilience and wellness. So, why wait? Start your summer reset today.