How Summer Influences the Mental Health of Canadians - Refresh Counselling Calgary

How Summer Influences Mental Health for Canadians

 

Summer is a season many Canadians look forward to, with endless opportunities for outdoor fun and adventure. However, with the rising temperatures come increased rates of depression, anxiety, and other associated mental health issues. As a nation known for its friendly nature and love for the outdoors, it is essential to understand the impact of summer on mental health and ways to alleviate it. This Refresh Counselling Calgary article highlights how summer affects mental health for Canadians, exploring some of the possible causes and suggesting measures to prevent these issues

 

Increasing pressure to socialize:

Summer is often characterized by social events such as barbecues, pool parties, and weddings which could lead to increasing pressure to socialize and feel connected. For some Canadians, socializing can be a significant source of stress and cause anxiety, particularly when attending events with unknown people. The constant ritual of putting up appearances can trigger burnout and cause significant emotional exhaustion. One way to manage these pressures is by setting limits, taking breaks, and prioritizing self-care. Finding a balance between socializing and taking time for oneself is essential to maintaining good mental health during the summer season.

 

Body image and self-esteem:

Summer triggers a heightened sense of self-awareness about physical appearance as more time is spent outdoors in swimwear and fewer clothes. According to research studies, body image dissatisfaction is a significant factor that drives poor mental health, especially during summer. The pressure to have the perfect beach body could cause anxiety, low self-esteem and lead to depression. One way to safeguard mental health is by practicing kindness and self-love. Critical self-talk and comparison to others should be avoided at all costs. Rather than focusing on beauty standards, values like health, kindness, and joy should be promoted and fostered.

 

Summer Vacation:

Vacation is a fundamental aspect of summer for many Canadians, and in many ways, it helps provide a sense of escape from the daily routine. However, the pressure to fully experience a vacation can trigger heightened stress and anxiety levels. Some Canadians may experience guilt or shame if they can't afford a vacation or need to prioritize work instead. Vacations often result in the accumulation of stress when routine activities are put on hold, making re-adjustment to normal life difficult. To avoid feeling overwhelmed, taking time to plan before going on vacation can be useful. Setting realistic goals and a daily schedule can provide structure and help avoid situations where schedules become too loose.

 

Sleep Disturbances:

Summer nights can be short, with the longer days and rising temperatures leading to sleep disturbances. The heat can cause discomfort which can disrupt sleep patterns, leading to an increase in irritability and daytime fatigue. One way to manage this is through improved sleep hygiene. Some examples of good sleep hygiene practices include avoiding caffeine and alcohol before bed, sticking to a regular sleep pattern, and keeping the bedroom cool and comfortable.

 

Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD):

Summer depression, also known as summer-onset SAD, is a type of seasonal affective disorder that is prevalent during the summer months. While many are aware of winter depression, summer depression is often overlooked. The symptoms of summer SAD include fatigue, loss of appetite, weight loss, and anxiety. Experts reason that the increased sunlight, coupled with rising temperatures, can lead to a shift in neurotransmitter levels in the brain, causing seasonal depression. To combat summer SAD, being mindful of one's thoughts, feelings and behaviours, getting enough sunlight and exercise, staying hydrated and adopting healthy eating habits are crucial.

 

Summer is often thought of as a carefree season; however, it can also be quite challenging for those struggling with mental health issues. If left unchecked, summer depression and anxiety can have severe impacts on mental health and well-being. By setting realistic expectations, prioritizing self-love, taking time to plan, and adopting good sleep hygiene practices, it's possible to enjoy the best that summer has to offer while still being mindful of mental health. As we enter the summer season, we must all strive to show genuine kindness and compassion to ourselves, friends, and loved ones while taking measures to safeguard our mental health. As always the team at Refresh Counselling Calgary are happy to support any time!