5 Ways To Help Your Kids Manage Summer Depression

Summer is finally here, and if your kids are out of school, you might assume that they’re happy and healthy. Perhaps your family has a trip planned, or you’re looking forward to a summer filled with fun activities. Maybe your child simply enjoys relaxing and spending more time at home.

It’s not always easy for parents to understand that summer depression could be impacting their kids. However, it’s important to recognize that it could be a problem. Summer depression can come with a variety of symptoms, including fatigue, changes in sleeping and eating habits, and loss of interest in things they typically enjoy.

Disrupted routines can make these symptoms worse, leading to a greater sense of sadness and hopelessness.

Thankfully, as a parent or caregiver, there are things you can do over the next few months to help your kids manage summer depression. Let’s cover a few tips that can make a big difference.

1. Get Outside

One of the easiest and most effective ways to help your kids combat summer depression is to ensure they’re spending plenty of time outside.

Spending time in the sun is a natural way to boost your child’s mood while regulating their sleep cycle. If they don’t typically enjoy going out on their own, suggest activities to make it fun for them. Try a family camping trip, a hike, or even a bike ride around the neighborhood after dinner. The more your child is interested in these activities, the more likely they are to want to continue doing them.

2. Establish a Routine

Kids thrive with routines. During the summer, your schedule might be a bit looser. There’s nothing wrong with sleeping in now and then or staying up later for a special occasion. However, overall, you should try to maintain a healthy routine for your child.

It’s especially important when it comes to their sleep schedule. Making sure they get enough sleep each night will naturally help their depression and regulate the body’s rhythms so they won’t have a hard time adjusting when school starts again.

3. Keep Them Social

Kids tend to have plenty of built-in connections during the school year. Those tend to fade away in the summer. While you might not be able to provide them with the same kind of social life they have in school, make sure they stay connected with their peers throughout the summer.

Schedule playdates and outings with friends. Sign them up for clubs and camps that allow them to meet new kids. Depression can cause children to want to isolate, but social withdrawal can make symptoms worse.

4. Communicate Frequently

Unfortunately, the signs of summer depression aren’t always obvious. They can be very subtle, so it’s important to pay attention and make sure you’re communicating as often as possible.

You don’t have to constantly ask your child if they’re doing okay. However, checking in frequently and letting them know they can talk to you about anything can make a big difference. Encouraging open communication at home sets a positive tone and lets your child know they have a safe space to turn to.

5. Seek Out Help

If you find that your child is still dealing with summer depression, consider working with a mental health professional. Getting involved in child therapy can give both you and your child a better understanding of where their depression stems from while offering even more healthy and effective ways to overcome it.

Don’t make the mistake of assuming kids can’t struggle with depression. If you’re concerned about some of the signs and symptoms your child is exhibiting, contact me today to set up a consultation to discuss child therapy.