Summer Routine Changes

Plan Now so you can Relax Later

By Bluestone Psychological Services

The summer is often advertised online, on screen, and potentially in our minds as a nirvana of sun, fun, vacations, and freedom! But for many families, children and adults it signifies a stressful change in routine. When a child finishes her last day of school you may think of it as an accomplishment but often they wake up the next morning looking sad. Moping around the house talking out loud about boredom; looking dejected. An initial parent reaction might be frustration and confusion. But instead opt for crouching down at their level and asking if they miss school. It is difficult to one day share in friendships, teachers, events, projects and most importantly the routine. Then, the next day, an abyss. In our experience this scenario plays out with elementary all the way to college students. It is an indicator that people clearly value the structure and routine school and college provides.

Changes in routine are difficult

For any age and the roulette of spinning summer engagements can be overwhelming. Even if you are not experiencing the school-to-summer change, this season brings changes at work, after-work soirees, and weekend planning.

Would you like to move forward with this change more fluidly and with more emotional space?

Here’s some tips to appreciate the beautiful summer season:

Family Empathy – everyone handles change differently; some are excited for the change and others are dreading the routine disruption. Ask your family members what they are looking forward to this summer but also what (and maybe who) they are going to miss.

Build Routine – with the change looming or already started, build your new routine. Try to schedule at least one family or friend gathering meal each day. (check out a group who is putting this to practice – http://thefamilydinnerproject.org) Or plan times for your kids to see their school friends on a consistent basis.

Take on the Challenge – A college roommate once told me that he would lift weights if they weren’t so heavy:) Changes in routine and schedule happen often, so see this as a new challenge to strengthen your flexibility skills. Accept the change and start to embrace it as an opportunity to practice the changes you want to see in yourself.

Don’t Forget You – Refuel, refocus, regenerate your energy by taking time for yourself and the things you love to do. Go for your run. Eat something delicious. Listen to your music. This will give you increased capacity for the other people in your life. Our society has capitalized self care, yet it has inherent value to your mental wellness.

Accept Change – we create barriers accidentally that prevent us from adapting. Accepting the change of routine and season is a way to move forward. Start your acceptance by noticing the changes you don’t like. Then use gratitude for the changes you do like.

Increased needs for mental wellness

At times our needs are more intense then the tips above can resolve. In these instances, please utilize our counselors, therapists and psychiatric medication practitioners. Our comprehensive, mental wellness care team is prepared to guide you towards your goals. Imagine feeling better, speaking freely, and building a plan. Complete our quick and easy form.

 

additional contributions by:

David A. Morris, LCSW