We often think that when the days get longer and the sun comes out, our mood will automatically lift. But for many of us, the reality can be very different, and we find ourselves with the summertime blues.
It can seem like everyone else is having barbecues, heading to the beach, or enjoying the warmer weather, and we can end up feeling quite isolated if we are struggling. The pressure to be cheerful simply because the sun is shining can make a low mood feel worse, as can disrupted sleep from muggy nights, the stress of school holidays changing daily routines, and the financial worry of keeping children entertained. It’s easy to see why summer isn’t a breeze for all of us.
The pressure of Summer Clothes
Another common challenge during the warmer months is how we feel about our bodies. As the temperature rises, heavy jumpers and long sleeves are put away, and taking off those layers can make us feel exposed. We might be anxious about wearing shorts, going swimming, or simply being seen by other people if we have body image issues or self-harm scars.
Staying Well Rain or Shine
Because we know summer brings its own hurdles, we’ve updated our Stay Well in 2026 wellbeing kit. It is filled with practical ideas, useful tools, and advice from across the Open Mental Health partnership to help you keep healthy and cool. We’ve made sure it focuses on what actually helps, guided by the voices of people who’ve lived through similar experiences themselves.
Difficulties with Eating, Weight or Body Image
Our alliance partner, SWEDA, specialises in eating disorders and body image concerns and supports people through these worries. As part of Open Mental Health, SWEDA and Mind in Somerset run a dedicated eating disorders helpline. If difficulties with eating, weight, or body image are making this summer hard for you, please call.
Call: 0300 330 5464
Sundays: 11:00 am until 2:00 pm
Tuesdays: 8:00 pm until 11:00 pm
You can talk to a trained listener for up to half an hour. The advice is free, impartial, and completely confidential.
We’re Here for You
Take a look at the resources in our wellbeing kit and find out what works for you, and if you want an introduction to Open Mental Health’s wider services, or just want a listening ear, give Mindline Somerset a call on 01823 276892 or freephone 0800 138 1692. Whether it is the middle of a hot afternoon or the early hours of the morning, support is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. You don’t have to wait for the weather to change to start feeling better.