Mental Health Matters: The Summer season is good for mental health

Mental+Health+Matters%3A+The+Summer+season+is+good+for+mental+health

Ariana Papcun, Editor

Summer is the time of no worries, fun and excitement. In the summer, the sun is out more and there are more daylight hours than in the winter. This and numerous other contributing factors can make summer beneficial to mental health. 

According to Centerstone, sun exposure boosts vitamin D levels which can improve mood. Being out in sunlight can help improve sleep as well as an increase in sun exposure increases melatonin production. Melatonin is a hormone that is produced by the brain in response to darkness. This will help with feeling happier, healthier and just better overall. While more sun exposure provides numerous benefits, it’s important to keep in mind the amount of water intake. Drinking water is necessary for the body to function properly. 

Another way summer can benefit mental health is all of the activities and exercise outside. Engaging in physical activities is a great advantage for health. According to Child Focus, taking walks, biking, jogging, outside yoga and swimming are all great ideas to get outside. Warm weather leads to more opportunities to get outside and get some exercise, even though it may be small. 

This warm season is also good for spending quality time with yourself and close loved ones. Taking the time to be in the moment to recharge and reflect is key to relaxing while enjoying your own company.

Summer has numerous joyful benefits that can help people feel better about themselves and the people around them. It’s always great to get out and enjoy the sun whenever feeling a little down because it never hurts to get a little vitamin D.