Why People Don’t Go to Therapy in the Summer

Summer, with its sunny skies and warm weather, often symbolizes relaxation and escape from routine. While this season is ideal for vacations and outdoor activities, many people tend to deprioritize or even pause their therapy sessions. Here are some reasons why therapy attendance can decline during the summer months:

1. Vacation Time and Travel Plans

Summer is synonymous with travel. Many people take advantage of school holidays and favorable weather to plan vacations. This can lead to scheduling conflicts, making it challenging to maintain regular therapy appointments. With the excitement of trips and adventures, therapy might take a back seat.

2. Perceived Improvement in Mood

The increased daylight and pleasant weather can naturally lift moods, leading some individuals to believe they don’t need therapy as much. This seasonal boost in well-being might give a temporary sense of stability, causing people to skip sessions, thinking they can manage without professional help for a while.

3. Disrupted Routines

Summer often disrupts regular routines. Kids are out of school, work schedules might be adjusted, and daily activities change. These disruptions can make it harder to stick to a consistent therapy schedule. When routines are in flux, therapy appointments can easily be forgotten or deprioritized.

4. Financial Considerations

Summer activities and vacations can be expensive, leading some individuals to reassess their budgets. Therapy, which can be costly, might be seen as an expendable expense during a time when money is being allocated towards travel and leisure.

5. Seasonal Misconceptions

There’s a common misconception that therapy is only for the tougher times. Since summer is generally associated with happiness and relaxation, some people might feel that seeking therapy during this time goes against the seasonal mood. They may believe that therapy is less necessary when life seems more carefree.

6. Therapist Availability

Therapists also take vacations. Reduced availability of therapists during the summer months can lead to fewer available slots for appointments. This can discourage clients from maintaining a consistent therapy schedule.

The Importance of Consistency

Despite these factors, maintaining consistency in therapy is crucial for long-term mental health. While summer may offer temporary boosts in mood, underlying issues don’t simply disappear with the season. Continuous support from a therapist ensures that progress is sustained and challenges are addressed proactively.

Making Therapy a Priority

Here are a few tips to help prioritize therapy during the summer:

• Plan Ahead: Coordinate your therapy schedule with your summer plans. Try to book sessions around your travel dates.Teletherapy Options: If you’re traveling, consider teletherapy sessions to maintain consistency.Flexible Scheduling: Talk to your therapist about flexible scheduling options that can accommodate your summer activities.Budget Wisely: Allocate funds for therapy even during the summer. Consider it an investment in your mental well-being.

Therapy is a valuable tool for mental health year-round. By recognizing the importance of consistent sessions and planning accordingly, you can enjoy your summer while still prioritizing your mental health.