Summertime can be tough on our mood and wellbeing, whether it’s the unpredictable weather, changes in routine, or feeling lonely. It’s important to take care of ourselves, even if the sun is shining.
Here are 10 simple ways to look after your wellbeing this summer.
1. Stick to a daily routine
Longer daylight hours can disrupt your sleep. Try to get up and go to bed at your usual times. A dark room or an eye mask can help — see our tips for sleeping well.
You could also make the most of summer by taking a break (or a ‘siesta’) in the afternoon, like people do in Mediterranean countries.
2. Stay connected
Summertime is often holiday time and your regular contacts, friends and family might be away or unavailable. You can still stay in touch by email, text or social media, even if people are abroad.
Helplines are available all year round for people who need them. You could also explore local groups and events over the summer months too.
3. Do things you enjoy
Make space for something you like each day. Plan activities to look forward to – even simple ones like reading a book in the sunshine or doing something creative indoors.
Having a backup plan for rainy days can help
4. Get outside
Spending 20 minutes a day outdoors can boost your mood. You could go for a walk in one of Leeds’ parks and green spaces.
Try to avoid the hottest part of the day. If you can’t go out, opening a window for fresh air can still help.
5. Look after your physical health
Here are some useful links to help you stay well:
- Coping in hot weather (NHS)
- Sun safety and awareness tips (NHS)
- Stay hydrated (NHS) and refreshing drinks ideas (BBC Good Food)
- Affordable, healthy recipes (FoodWise Leeds)
- Stay active and moving
- Stop smoking support in Leeds
- Hay fever and insect sting advice (NHS)
And, if you take medication for your mental health, read Summer and Mental Health from Mental Health UK for information about coping in hot weather.
6. Make summer plans that suit you
It’s OK to enjoy simple, low-cost days out. You don’t need to spend lots of money to have a good summer. The Big Issue has 33 places where children can eat cheaply or for free.
Here are some free or low-cost things you can do in Leeds:
7. Take time to relax
The last few years have been challenging for many people. It’s important to find moments to relax every day. You could try:
- Breathing exercises
- Listening to feel-good music
- Caring for your plants
- Going for a run or walk
Find relaxation tips from Mind and explore our MindWell sensory comfort kit.
8. Drink sensibly
Being mindful of alcohol can support both your physical and emotional health.
Try Public Health England’s Drink Free Days app, or check out the Drink Coach website for tips to help you cut down.
Explore the Forward Leeds website for more advice and support (or read our interview with them to learn more about the service).
9. Try writing things down
Keeping a journal can be a great way to explore and organise our thoughts. It can help you plan your day, express gratitude and understand your worries and feelings.
Summer can be a great time to think about goals and preparing for the rest of the year, so why not get a notebook or find a journal app and get writing? The Mental Health Foundation has a nature journal (free to download) which could inspire you.
10. Ask for help
If you’re struggling, it’s OK to ask for help if you need to, there’s always someone to talk to. Call NHS 111 and select the ‘mental health’ option, or find other local and and national helplines and support.
Visit MindMate for advice and support around children and young people’s mental health. Or explore resources to help primary and secondary school age children practise self-care over the summer, from the Anna Freud website.
Explore MindWell’s wellbeing section, for self-care ideas, ways to look after your physical health and lots more.
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