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We’ve all seen them. Those social media posts from friends who’ve had the most amazing/ unforgettable/life-changing entire-family vacations to historic/tropical/fun-filled/exotic places. And you’ve been stuck at your desk, completely unable to afford even a weekend at a cheap motel an hour outside of town. It’s a formula for the summer blues.
Although seasonal depression (or seasonal affective disorder—SAD) is a real thing, it most often affects people in the fall and winter, and tapers off in the spring and summer. Summer is, after all, a time of warmth, sunshine, and adventure. But for some people, it can also bring feelings of sadness and disappointment. The “summer blues” is also a real, clinical phenomenon that many people experience.
Not everyone who feels sad during the summer suffers from SAD, so consulting a mental-health counselor may be necessary. But if your sadness is more about missing out on what you’re seeing your friends experience, there are some practical steps you can take. Here are 5 tips to help you beat the summer blues.
Stay Off Social Media
If seeing other people’s posts about their adventures this summer contribute to your feelings of sadness, it may be a good idea to stay off social media for awhile. Seeing other people’s vacation photos and happy posts can be difficult when you’re feeling down or stuck at home. Instead, focus on the things you enjoy doing in your own life and find ways to make the most of your current situation. If you do decide to stay on social media, consider unfollowing accounts that make you feel envious or inadequate. Remember, people often only post the highlights of their lives, and it’s important to focus on your own journey, not someone else’s highlight reel.
Connect with Others IRL
Feeling isolated or disconnected from others can contribute to feelings of sadness and despair. Make an effort to connect with friends and family this summer in person. Get togethers don’t have to be expensive. Gather friends for a backyard barbecue, or meet at a local park on a weekend or after work. If family is far away, plan a video call. Social interaction can help reduce stress and improve mental health. It’s hard to want to be the initiator if you’re already feeling down. Admit your feelings of sadness to someone safe, and ask for their help in gathering a few friends for something that will bring you joy.
Get Moving
Exercise is a great way to boost your mood and improve your overall well-being. Research has shown that exercise can reduce symptoms of depression and anxiety, so make time for physical activity in your daily routine. Whether it’s going for a walk, taking an exercise class, or going for a bike ride, being physically active can help you feel energized and motivated. Don’t talk yourself out of it! Ask a friend to go with you for some company and accountability.
Practice Gratitude
Practicing gratitude is a powerful way to focus on the positives in your life and shift your perspective. One way to practice gratitude is to keep a daily gratitude journal. Each day, write down three things you’re grateful for. They can be big or small, from the people in your life to the food on your table to the sunshine outside your window. By focusing on what you do have instead of what you don’t, you’ll start to shift your perspective and feel more positive about your life.
Learn Something New
One way to battle the summer blues is to try something new. Learning new skills can increase happiness and overall well-being. So, challenge yourself to try something new this summer and see how it makes you feel. Try learning a new language, taking up a new hobby, or simply reading a new book. Exploring new things can help you feel more engaged and excited about life.
You’re not alone in feeling sad during the summer. It’s okay to struggle and feel like you’re missing out on all the fun that summer can bring. But remember, joy isn’t found in your circumstances or experiences alone. True joy comes from a relationship with God, who promises to be with you always. Take some time to connect with him through prayer, reading the Word, and spending time in nature. Trust that God has a plan for your life, and that includes this summer. Keep pressing on, knowing that better days are ahead because God sees you and knows your needs.
Second Corinthians 1:3-4 says, “Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of mercies and God of all comfort, who comforts us in all our affliction, so that we may be able to comfort those who are in any affliction, with the comfort with which we ourselves are comforted by God.” Listen to the short version of this guided meditation from Abide based on this passage. Let the Word of God sink into your heart to help you find peace.
For daily inspiration and encouragement, download the Abide app using this link to receive 25% off a premium subscription. With full-length guided meditations, daily devotionals, and Bible-based sleep stories, the Abide app can help you stay centered and focused during the summer months. The app offers a variety of topics related to mental health, emotional well-being, and spiritual growth, providing the perfect tools to help you conquer the summer blues.
