Summertime Sadness

 


(Image Description: The phrase "Summertime Sadness" highlighted in bright orange with a melting blue popsicle in the background.)

Summertime Sadness


Summer is a time of warm weather, pool days, and sunshine. However, some do not realize that summer isn’t a cheery time for everyone. Summertime sadness is very real and very widespread. Come explore it here with the YLC! 


What exactly is Summertime Sadness? 


Summertime sadness can be different for each person. It isn’t a universal experience for all. Also, it does not have to be literal sadness, but generally it can be described as having negative feelings in responses to the changes that summer brings. It may be boredom, anxiety, or loneliness. Summertime sadness could look like someone missing their school friends during their three months of vacation. It could also look like someone feeling misguided without a regular routine of school and work. Whatever it may look like, summertime isn’t all sunshine and smiles all the time, but rather can be a time when individuals are missing certain people and activities from the rest of school year. 


What are ways to help ease the feeling of Summertime Sadness? 



Depending on the source of where the “sadness” is, there are a lost of ways to combat these feelings. First of all, each and every individual undergoes these feelings at least for one moment in the summertime, so the experience is universal. You are not alone! Navigating these feelings may sound tough, but a few small changes in your mindset and routine can help.


Start by thinking positive thoughts. This may sound extremely simple, but it goes a long way! Instead of thinking, “Ugh! I have nothing to do!” change that thought to “I have so much free time this summer! I can finally spend my days peacefully without stress!”. Just looking at the bright side of things can be a great way to help your mood change for the better. 


Another thing that can help is filling your days with things that you enjoy. Nothing gives you a serotonin boost like engaging in activities that you love. Read your favorite book, watch that new Netflix show, go on walks, visit your friends, bake, color, sit in the sun, talk on the phone, go to your favorite restaurant, shop, or even just lay down and sleep - all these things can also add a little extra joy into your day. 



What are some ways to help you friends get through Summer Sadness?


Sometimes you may not be experiencing summertime sadness, but rather you are noticing a friend feeling down. The good news is that you can still help! Check in on your loved ones all throughout the summer. You do not have to spam them, but regular texts and calls can go a long way. Also, prioritize your friendships with your buddies more than ever in the summertime. Sometimes people may feel some sort of isolation outside of the school year, so a strong buddy pair friendship can give them that love and support that they need. Again, stay in contact with all your friends and buddies, and even try to arrange a time to meet at least once a month, if possible. Your small acts of kindness make a big difference in how others spend their days, so be sure to keep that in mind throughout the summer! 



The YLC wishes you the best this summer! 


In Friendship, 


Maya Ali


Comments

Popular Posts