Maintaining Your Mental Health in the Summer

Believe it or not, your summer glow-up is a mentality!

by SLOANE MOSKOWITZ graphics by DANNY KHAN

Summer: a time to take a break from school, a time to get tan, and a time to hang out with friends. This is everyone’s favorite time of year, but it also means change from a normal routine. While it’s so easy to grab the newest brand of hard seltzer and let go during the summer, it is equally important to focus on your mental health before heading back to school in the fall. Here are some UGirl tips for staying on top of your game mentally while you make the most of the sun!

Manage a Normal Sleep Schedule

The right amount of sleep will change your mood in an instant. Turning off your phone 30 minutes before you go to bed is proven to be positive for your mind and your sleep patterns. While it’s so easy to press “snooze”, sleeping in that extra hour or two may actually be hurting you. Getting too much sleep in one night throws off your sleep patterns and ultimately makes you more tired! Set a sleep schedule for yourself so you can wake up at around the same time each day without getting too much or too little sleep.

Stay Active!

Not only is exercise good for your physical health, it is just as valuable for your mental health! Going outside and moving around for at least 30 minutes a day will show significant changes in your well-being and attitude. Summer weather is scarce, so make sure to enjoy it. Even if it just means going for a long walk with friends or swimming in the pool, staying active is so beneficial; and most importantly, it helps with your summer tan!

Hydrate

With the summer heat, hydration is a MUST! Staying hydrated is good for your body, skin, and mind. Studies have shown that enough water during the day can reduce anxiety and depression. Dietician Jane Clark has noted that “your brain won’t perform at its best if it isn’t optimally hydrated”. Drinking enough water during the day will improve all aspects of your mental balance, even preventing a headache after a summer party.

Take Time For Yourself

The world seems to slow down during the summer, so take advantage of this time you have with less responsibilities. Whether it means tanning, reading a book for pleasure, journaling, or even shopping for a new summer wardrobe, being alone and reflecting on yourself is important for your mental soundness. Live in the moment and don’t sweat the small stuff. These tips will help leading into the winter months when getting some sun is not so easy!