5 Summer Activities That Can Boost Your Mental Health

When Summer Feels Heavy: How to Care for Your Mental Health During the Sunniest Season

The sun is shining, temperatures are climbing… and yet, you’re feeling low. While many associate seasonal affective disorder (SAD) with the cold, darker months of fall and winter, it's not uncommon for some people to feel down during spring and summer, too. Whether your mood dip is due to SAD or something else entirely, know that you're not alone—and there are ways to find relief.

Here are five simple, summer-friendly activities that can support your mental well-being:

🌿 Move (or Relax) Outdoors Try a new outdoor activity like walking, swimming, or playing tennis. Even if you’re not up for much movement, just sitting outside with a book or sharing a picnic with friends can give your mood a gentle lift.

🎶 Build a Feel-Good Summer Playlist Fill your ears with upbeat, energizing tunes that make you want to move—or simply smile. Music has a powerful effect on how we feel.

🌼 Add a Touch of Greenery Plant some flowers or herbs to freshen up your home. If you don’t have outdoor space, look into a local community garden—you might even meet some new people while you’re at it.

🎡 Plan a Simple Outing Check out a local fair, catch an outdoor movie, or spend the day exploring a nearby amusement park. Getting out of your routine, even briefly, can be refreshing.

🍓 Visit a Farmer’s Market. Wander through the stalls, grab some fresh produce, and try a new summer recipe. Nourishing your body is another way to care for your mind.

Still Not Feeling Like Yourself? We're Here to Help.

If you’ve tried a few of these activities but still feel like something’s off, it might be time to talk to someone. Our experienced therapists are here to listen, understand what you’re going through, and work with you to create a personalized plan for feeling better.

Reach out today to schedule a session. You deserve support—and a summer that feels lighter.