As the weather gets warmer and days get longer, college campuses start emptying out. While some students are grateful for some much-needed downtime, others face particular mental health challenges during the summer. Let’s explore 5 mental health tips to help college students navigate summer break.
College is undoubtedly a period in life full of excitement, self-discovery, and new experiences. However, it also presents new demands, transitions, and occasional setbacks and frustrations.
The jarring truth is more than half of college students find their mental health has deteriorated during college. These trying times can lead to mental issues and, unfortunately, those don’t end along with the school year. So, how can you deal with aggravating difficulties during summer?
Common Mental Health Challenges Faced by College Students
Challenges posed by college such as overwhelming coursework and newfound responsibilities can create plenty of emotional stress. Moreover, many students also have to juggle part- or full-time jobs, and other family responsibilities, like caring for their siblings.
There are a lot of distressing factors in college students’ lives, among them:
- Academic pressure;
- Isolation;
- Discrimination and harassment;
- Financial issues;
- Health problems;
- Global concerns, such as climate/environmental issues or gun violence;
- Grief/loss.
A recent study found that 56% of college students have dealt with chronic stress, which is linked to physical and mental health issues. Another 2023 study reported that nearly 76% of undergraduate students were struggling with moderate to severe psychological distress.
This comprehensive report has shown concerning results:
- An overwhelming majority had experienced moderate or severe stress levels in the past month;
- Over half experienced loneliness;
- 31% experienced suicidal ideation, while 3% attempted suicide in the year prior;
- Over 10% had intentionally injured themselves in the past year.
Regrettably, anxiety and depression are some of the most frequently diagnosed mental health conditions in college students, followed by trauma or stress-related disorders (e.g., PTSD) and other issues.
It’s clear to see the importance of helping college students navigate these mental health challenges both during the school year and summer break.
How Does Summer Break Affect Students’ Mental Health?
Many factors can pitch in on aggravating college students’ mental health during the summer months. Let’s explore some predominant ones:
1. Restricted access to services
A key issue is the overall reduced access to a number of helpful and positive resources, such as teachers, counselors, and other encouraging adults who offered reassurance and guidance.
Students are 6 times more likely to access mental healthcare when provided by schools, so it’s clear that restricted assistance over the summer will potentially worsen mental health.
On the other hand, access to food and nutrition programs may also be limited during summer to students who rely on them for their everyday meals. This raises the chance of food insecurity, which is associated with mental health issues.
2. Routine disruption
Another main concern is the shift in routine. The transition back home may cause distress for students with unhealthy family dynamics. College signifies a break from conflicts with parents or other family members that they now have to experience again while home for the summer.
Additionally, some students may feel frustrated having less autonomy than they used to when away in college. There can also be a disruption in the structure they experienced at college, making it harder to adjust and keep a healthy routine. It’s crucial not to fall back into old habits.
3. Environmental risks
Finally, other environmental factors may also play a role in the difficulties experienced during summer break. For instance, exposure to criminal violence can increase the presence and risk of mental health conditions for students who live in regions with higher crime rates.
So, how can college students better cope with the summer months?
5 Mental Health Tips for College Students During Summer Break
1. Maintain a routine and healthy habits
As we mentioned, it’s crucial to put in place a stable and structured routine. Having regular sleep and meal schedules, practicing exercise, and enjoying leisure time can help students deal with stress and other mental health conditions.
Moreover, it’s important to set aside time for self-care activities, such as meditation or mindfulness practice, relaxation techniques, and hobbies. This contributes to students’ well-being and stress management.
2. Engage in summer programs and other activities
Having a lot of free time all of a sudden can actually worsen students’ mental health. So, it’s beneficial to learn about camps or other summer activities that allow them to maintain a regular schedule, be active, and socialize with their peers.
While some activities are more readily available to higher-income families, let’s not forget about the incredible opportunities that can arise from participating in community or volunteer work. These activities foster a sense of belonging and increase satisfaction in supporting the community.
Finally, summer jobs can also be a way to promote structure and a sense of responsibility and commitment.
3. Stay committed to your responsibilities
Aside from maintaining a sense of structure, keeping up with responsibilities provides college students with an essential feeling of accomplishment. It also promotes productivity and it can increase self-esteem and well-being.
Besides the activities we’ve mentioned, here are a couple more ideas: taking courses and investing in professional training, doing internships, developing new skills, or planning for the upcoming year can all be excellent ways to stay committed to your responsibilities!
4. Take a moment to reflect
The downtime you get in the summer months can be an opportunity to think and readjust some things in your life. Take the time to consider the past college year: What led to higher stress levels? How did you cope with it? What was more helpful and what could be improved?
Self-reflection about the ways you deal with difficulties is important not only for your mental health but also as a tool for personal growth.
5. Seek professional help
If you’re struggling with your mental health during summer break and feel like nothing is working, don’t be afraid to seek professional help. You might be reliving unhealthy dynamics at home and/or away from your college support system.
Whatever the case, our trained and licensed professionals can help you identify your stressors and how to cope with them in healthier ways. Addressing your mental health issues and receiving treatment can and will improve your college experience and your life!
Find Mental Health Support for College Students This Summer in Baltimore, MD
Are you struggling to maintain your mental well-being well cared for during the summer? Do you feel that, as much as you want to follow through with these mental health tips for college students, you might need extra support and guidance?
Our therapists have experience supporting college students through the changes and challenges that come with college life. We are within walking distance of Loyola University, 1.5 miles from Johns Hopkins University, and 3 miles of Maryland Institute College of Art, Morgan State University, and Towson University. Get started by scheduling a free 15-minute consultation here!
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