As the days grow longer and temperatures rise, summer brings with it the promise of relaxation and fun-filled activities. However, this season can also usher in unexpected stressors, including the pressure to make the most of every moment and the dreaded summer FOMO.

Summer is a time filled with vacations, outdoor activities, and relaxation. However, it’s easy to feel like you’re missing out when you see friends and family participating in exciting events, leading to a phenomenon known as FOMO. In this article, we’ll explore what FOMO is, why it occurs, and how to overcome it so you can enjoy your summer to the fullest.

What is FOMO?

FOMO, or Fear of Missing Out, is the feeling of anxiety or insecurity that arises when you perceive that others are having more fun or experiencing better things than you. With the prevalence of social media, FOMO has become increasingly common as people can easily compare their lives to others, often leading to feelings of inadequacy or discontent.

FOMO is often triggered by social comparison. As humans, we naturally tend to compare ourselves to others, which can be intensified by social media platforms that showcase people’s “highlight reels.” When you see others enjoying vacations, parties, and other exciting activities, it’s easy to feel left out or as if you’re missing out on something special.

There is no magical way to make stress or FOMO disappear altogether, but there are ways to manage it. Here are eight things you can do to cope with summer stress and FOMO.

Plan Your Summer

A little planning goes a long way in reducing stress. Start by listing activities and events you’d like to participate in during the summer months. Next, prioritize your list and create a rough schedule to ensure you can fit in everything you want to do. Having a plan will give you a sense of control and make it easier to enjoy your summer.

Set Realistic Expectations

When creating your summer plans, be sure to set realistic expectations. While it’s great to have goals, trying to do too much can leave you feeling overwhelmed. Remember to leave time for relaxation and spontaneity. It’s also important to acknowledge that plans can change, so be prepared to go with the flow if needed.

Disconnect to Reconnect

Summer is the perfect time to take a break from your digital devices. Try to set boundaries for your screen time and make an effort to disconnect. Enjoy the great outdoors, read a book, or engage in a new hobby. Unplugging gives you more time to connect with yourself and others, leading to a more fulfilling and stress-free summer.

Stay Active

Exercise is known to reduce stress and improve overall well-being. Summer offers many opportunities to stay active, from swimming and hiking to playing sports or even walking. Find activities you enjoy and incorporate them into your daily routine.

Practice Mindfulness

Mindfulness involves being present and fully engaged in the moment. To reduce stress, practice mindfulness through meditation, yoga, or deep-breathing exercises. These techniques can help you relax, focus, and enjoy your summer to the fullest.

Create a Relaxation Routine

Develop a daily or weekly relaxation routine to help you unwind and destress. This could involve taking a soothing bath, reading a book, journaling, or spending time in nature. A routine can help you manage stress and ensure that relaxation becomes a priority.

Stay Hydrated

Dehydration can lead to headaches, fatigue, and irritability – all of which can contribute to stress. So drink plenty of water throughout the day, especially outdoors. Staying hydrated will keep you feeling refreshed and stress-free.

Build a Support Network

Connecting with friends and family can help alleviate stress and promote a sense of belonging. So make plans to spend time with your loved ones over the summer, whether it’s a weekend getaway, a simple picnic in the park, or a backyard barbecue. Sharing your experiences and creating memories with those close to you can help make your summer stress-free and enjoyable.

Recognizing when it’s time to seek help for anxiety or overwhelming stress is crucial for maintaining overall well-being and improving your quality of life. While it’s normal to experience occasional stress or anxious feelings, persistent or severe anxiety can interfere with your daily functioning and may be a sign that professional help is needed.

One of the first indicators that it’s time to seek help is when anxiety or stress begins to impact your daily activities and responsibilities. If you find yourself constantly worrying or ruminating about various aspects of your life, such as work, relationships, or even everyday tasks, it might be time to consider seeking professional support. Additionally, if you notice a significant change in your sleeping patterns, appetite, or overall mood, these could be signs that your anxiety has reached a level where intervention is necessary.

Physical symptoms, such as headaches, muscle tension, or stomach issues, can also indicate chronic anxiety or stress. While these symptoms can occur due to various factors, if they persist or worsen in conjunction with emotional symptoms, it’s essential to reach out for help. Furthermore, if your anxiety or stress is causing you to withdraw from social activities, avoid situations that were once enjoyable, or engage in unhealthy coping mechanisms, such as excessive alcohol consumption or substance abuse, it’s a clear signal that professional assistance is needed.

Remember, seeking help is not a sign of weakness; it demonstrates self-awareness and the willingness to prioritize your mental health. If you’re unsure whether your anxiety or stress warrants professional intervention, it’s always best to err on the side of caution and consult with a mental health professional. They can provide guidance, support, and appropriate treatment options, helping you regain control of your life and overcome the challenges of anxiety and stress.

Serene Health is here to support you and provide assistance during this summer season and beyond. Our team of dedicated professionals can help you find the right treatment plan for your unique needs and offer guidance on managing stress in healthy ways. We offer a wide range of behavioral health and mental health services, including flexible appointments through our telehealth platform so you can speak to a therapist online at a time and location that work for you.

Contact us today to learn more about our services, or schedule an appointment to start your journey towards improved mental health. Call us at 844-737-3638 or visit www.serenehealth.com.