How to Fight Summer Depression with an Active Brain

Summer depression affects many of us because we get out of our normal routines during the summer months. This can lead to the decreased active use of our brains, thus worsening depression in the summer (What Is Seasonal Affective Disorder, Seasonal Depression?). How can we avoid this summer depression?

Summer Depression Prevention Strategies

Here are a few simple strategies that lessen the likelihood of summer depression by keeping our brains active.

1. Involve other people in your interests. Would you like to raise money for a charity or volunteer? Gather friends and work on this worthwhile project together. Another idea is to choose a subject or hobby that you enjoy, then invite others to explore the chosen topic with you or ask them to join you in crafting, creating, etc.  Meet once a week or once a month -- whatever works best for your group. It does not have to be a large gathering. For example, I am doing a book club this summer in which the only members are my spouse and I. Learning while interacting with others is a great way to have fun. It keeps your brain active, lessening the likelihood that summer depression will rear its ugly head (Distraction from Depression Can be a Healthy Coping Skill).
2. Learn new skills. A more relaxed summer schedule allows for time to learn the skills we've been interested in learning but haven't had the time. Do you want to learn to cook? Go for it. Are you interested in learning a foreign language? Now is the time. Use the summer months to acquire new skills, which is an effective way of keeping your brain active.
3. Go on adventures. Step out of your comfort zone. Do you want to travel? Make a plan and start saving. Do you have a talent or creative ability that you'd like to share with others? Don't let fear stand in your way any longer. These are big goals; however, so don't get discouraged by the belief that your adventure has to be expensive or elaborate. Your adventure could be to try a food you've never eaten or to find a new walking or biking path. Maybe your adventure will be to do something you said you'd never do, like my adventure is going to be. I will be camping -- outdoors, in a tent, with no electricity, no running water, and no plumbing. I believe that adventure will certainly keep my brain active while, hopefully, lessening the effects of depression, as I will truly be getting up close and personal with nature.