Summer Loneliness and Mental Health

With exams coming to an end and the school year finishing up, summer can be a time to relax, recharge, and enjoy a time from academic stress. While this can be an opportunity to spend time with loved ones and close friends, this season can also be a time of loneliness for many. As routines begin to change and social circles shift, people may end up isolating themselves, increasing feelings of loneliness which negatively impacts mental health.

During the summer season, many are travelling or spending time with their friends. With the increase of social media, and especially for someone feeling alone, it becomes easy to compare and doubt themselves. Without the constant social interaction those would get from going to school or work, overthinking and negative thoughts become more common, which increases feelings of anxiety, overthinking, and sadness. Loneliness often makes people feel isolated, forgotten, or unwanted, which contributes to negative feelings, creating a feedback loop of loneliness and depression.

When loneliness continues to get unaddressed, this can affect daily routines, making it harder to bounce back after the season. This can look like sleeping in too much, avoidance, avoiding communication with others, and dismissal of activities they once enjoyed participating in. If you or anyone you know is displaying any of these signs, it's crucial to reach out and ask for help. Through incorporating healthy coping strategies and therapy, it is more than possible to enjoy your summer break, stress-free and full of enjoyment and relaxation.