Why Students Should Start Therapy Over the Summer

With the school year coming to an end and summer break on the horizon, starting therapy may not be top of mind if you’re a college or graduate student. But as a therapist, I believe beginning therapy over the summer is actually the best time to take charge of your mental and emotional wellbeing. It’s a unique opportunity to be proactive with your mental health so that you can set a strong foundation when school year stress and your busy schedule ramp up again.

Here are just a few of the reasons why starting therapy over the summer is a good idea:

Time: Summer is a great time for college students to start therapy because they have fewer academic obligations and therefore may have more free time. This can allow them to focus on their mental health without the added stress of classes, exams, and assignments.

Transition: The summer can also be a time of transition for many college students, whether they are moving back home, starting a new job or internship, or preparing for the upcoming school year. Therapy can help them navigate these transitions and manage any stress or anxiety that may arise.

Proactivity: Being proactive with therapy means addressing mental health concerns before they become more serious. By starting therapy over the summer, college students can address any issues they may be experiencing and develop coping strategies to use during the school year.

Flexibility: Many therapists have more availability during the summer months, which can provide students with more flexibility in scheduling appointments. This can be especially helpful for students who have part-time jobs or internships during the summer.

Coping strategies: Therapy can provide students with valuable coping strategies and tools to use throughout the school year, and it’s always best to learn these strategies when you are not in a state of acute stress so that you can feel confident implement coping skills when stressors do arise. Learning coping strategies over the summer help students manage stress, anxiety, and other mental health concerns once the school year begins.

Support system: Therapy can also provide college students with a supportive and non-judgmental space to discuss any concerns or issues they may be experiencing. This can be especially important for students who may not have a strong support system at home or on campus. Starting therapy over the summer can help students who may not feel supported at home, while also laying the foundation for support once they are back on campus.

Overall, starting therapy over the summer can be a proactive step towards prioritizing mental health and well-being for college students. By addressing any concerns early on, students can develop coping strategies, manage stress and anxiety, and have a support system in place as they navigate the challenges of the school year. CONNECT WITH US to learn more about therapy for young adults.