MindWell’s top 10 tips for summer wellbeing

Summer can come with a lot of expectations – to be social, active, outdoors, and constantly making the most of it.

You don’t have to do any of that.

• It’s okay if your summer looks quiet or low-key.
• Rest is still valid in warmer, brighter months.
• You don’t need to “catch up” or maximise every day.
• Your version of summer doesn’t need to match anyone else’s.

If social media makes things feel worse, consider muting, limiting, or stepping away when needed. Check out Calm’s 12 tips to support a manageable digital detox.

Take time to relax, even if it doesn’t seem like those around you are. For ideas on what this might look like, visit Mind’s page on relaxation.

School holidays, annual leave, childcare changes, or disrupted schedules can all make life feel less settled.

• Try keeping a few anchor points in your day (meals, short walks, check-ins).
• Use gentle planning rather than rigid schedules.
• Break larger tasks into smaller steps.
• Accept that routines may look different – not worse, just different.

Structure can support wellbeing, but flexibility matters too.

Check out British Red Cross’ advice and ideas on how you can increase your resilience and improve wellbeing by building a healthy routine.

If you have kids at home, visit Barnardo’s blog post on how to make and keep a healthy routine with your kids this summer.

Long daylight hours can make it harder to wind down, especially if your body clock struggles with seasonal changes.

• Try keeping a consistent bedtime and wake time where possible.
• Use blackout curtains or an eye mask to reduce early morning light.
• Create a simple wind-down routine (for example, low lighting, no screens, calming activity).
• If sleep feels disrupted, focus on rest rather than forcing sleep.

It’s normal for sleep patterns to shift in summer – the aim is to support your rest, not keep a perfect schedule.

See MindWell’s tips for sleeping well.

Explore tips on how to keep cool at night during a heatwave.

Summer can bring more invitations, events, and expectations to socialise – which can feel enjoyable for some and draining for others.

• It’s okay to say no, or to leave early.
• Choose the events that feel manageable, not obligatory.
• Balance social time with recovery time.
• If you’re feeling isolated, start small – one message or short meet-up can be enough.

Connection doesn’t have to mean constant activity.

Helplines are available all year round for people who need them.

You could also explore different, more gentle ways to connect such as volunteering or joining a creative group.

Summer can be financially stressful – with holidays, childcare, days out, or social spending adding pressure.

• Look for free or low-cost local activities (parks, libraries, community events).
• Set simple spending boundaries that feel realistic.
• Plan ahead where possible to reduce last-minute costs.
• Remember that meaningful time doesn’t have to be expensive.

In Leeds, there are often free community activities and outdoor spaces that can offer a break without financial strain.

Check out parks, green spaces, and places to visit in Leeds.

Visit Leeds List for best free things to do in Leeds. 

If you’re worried about money, you are not alone. Visit our managing money: where to start page or seek help from services such as Money Buddies or Better Leeds Communities for specialist support.

Warmer weather and more exposed clothing can increase body image pressures for some people.

• Wear clothes that feel comfortable, not just “seasonal”.
• Limit comparison with others where possible.
• Focus on what your body helps you do, not just how it looks.
• Challenge harsh self-talk when it shows up.

If body image is affecting your wellbeing, you’re not alone – support is available.

Read Young Minds’ blog on how to swap self-comparison for self-compassion.

You can explore our self-help resources for ideas to support self-esteem and body image, including ways to manage difficult thoughts and build self-compassion.

If summer pressures are affecting your relationship with food or your body, specialist support is available. You can find local services in Leeds, such as Battle Scars, through the MindWell service directory.

Hot weather can affect mood, energy levels, concentration, and sleep.

• Drink water regularly, even if you don’t feel thirsty.
• Keep windows open early/late in the day when it’s cooler.
• Wear loose, breathable clothing where possible.
• Take breaks in shade or cooler indoor spaces.
• Pace yourself with physical activity during hotter periods.

If you’re struggling with overheating in work, home, or travel settings, small adjustments can make a real difference.

If your home feels too hot, you can also visit one of Leeds’ free, cooler, indoor community venues through the council’s Cool Spaces programme. These spaces offer a comfortable place to cool down, rest, and spend time during periods of hot weather.

Check out the NHS’ useful advice about on how to cope in hot weather.

Being outside can support mood and energy, but it doesn’t need to be intense or structured exercise.

• Short walks in local parks or green spaces.
• Sitting outside with a drink or book.
• Gentle stretching in the morning or evening.
• Choosing movement that feels accessible, not punishing.

Leeds has many accessible green spaces that can offer a quiet reset when needed.

Check out Backstory’s summer reading guide for ideas and inspiration of what to read this season.

If you’re finding things hard, support is available – whether that’s about mood, anxiety, loneliness, stress, or anything else affecting your wellbeing.

You can explore support options and local services through MindWell, including information on talking therapies, local wellbeing groups, and specialist services near you.

You can also contact Linking Leeds for free one-to-one support to help you access community services, activities, and practical support across Leeds.

You don’t have to wait until things feel “serious enough” to ask for help.

If you need immediate help, visit our urgent help page.