How to cope with loneliness during the summer holidays

Topics mentioned: loneliness, self-care, school, friends

About: If you're worried about feeling lonely during the summer holidays, our blogger shares their advice to help you stay connected and structure your days.

Although the summer holidays can be an exciting time, after the first couple of weeks of no school it can become lonely and strange. Transitioning from a busy school environment where you see your friends daily to weeks without a structured routine can be a difficult adjustment.

If you are struggling during the summer holidays, then here are some tips that may help your mental health and ensure you make the most of your time off school.

• During the summer holidays, people often feel isolated because they’re no longer surrounded by their classmates every day.
• It’s really easy to distance ourselves by spending all our time alone and neglecting keeping in touch with friends.
• However, keeping in contact with school mates is crucial to maintaining a support network and avoiding feelings of loneliness.
• Texting a friend to organise a get-together is really important. It may feel daunting, but taking that step to make plans will mean you keep connected to your friends during your time off school.

• Implementing our own structure to our days during the summer holidays is really beneficial.
• The summer holidays are a big change to what we are used to during term time. The days may have no structure or routine, and this can lead to us feeling unmotivated and unproductive.
• It’s easy to get into a rut, but by having a schedule during the holidays we can maintain some organisation in our days. 
• Having a routine can be as simple as ensuring you get up and eat breakfast each morning, or allocating time each day for pursuing your hobbies and interests.
• Just keeping some structure in our lives during the summer means our days will be much more organised and productive. Plus, when September arrives and it’s time to return to school, the transition back to school will be easier.

• Exercise is so important for not only our physical health, but also our mental health as it releases endorphins which make us feel good!
• At school, we often do sports multiple times a week, and it’s a great idea to continue doing this during the summer holidays. 
• It could be walking the dog, running around the block, whatever you like!
• Getting your body moving in whatever way works best for you is a great way to spend your time, helping you de-stress and keep healthy.

• School is tiring and you have worked hard during the term, so the summer holidays are a time to take a break and relax. 
• It’s a great chance to recharge your batteries ready for the next school year, so make sure you take some time to rest and recuperate!
• Do the things that you enjoy or find new hobbies - just take some time for yourself.

If you are really struggling over the summer, there are many charities and helplines that you can contact for support. Do not suffer in silence, there is always someone who can help.