The Mental Health Benefits of Summer

It’s a well-known fact that often in the summer we generally feel happier because of the warmer and longer days. However, it’s not just us who feel this, because research has shown that the warmer month can do wonders for our state of mind and general wellbeing.

Here are just a few benefits summer can bring for our mental health…

Your body gets Vitamin D which encourages the release of serotonin

When you’re enjoying the sun, your body is getting Vitamin D which encourages the release of serotonin. Serotonin is the chemical in your brain that is thought to regulate your mood, so the higher the levels of serotonin, the better the mood!

Your sleep quality may improve

Research has shown that some people sleep better in the summertime. This is because sunlight helps regulate our bodies production of melatonin and serotonin, which are two of the hormones that help set our internal body clock.

More opportunity to exercise

Another common reason why summer puts people in better spirits is to do with activity levels. Thanks to the longer and warmer days, we often find we have more time and energy to exercise. As you probably already know, exercise is a fantastic mood booster and is scientifically proven to help reduce symptoms of anxiety and depression.

Increased socialising

Have you ever noticed that people seem to socialise a lot more in the summer? It’s not hard to see why as the summer opens up the opportunity for a variety of social events, such as BBQs in the garden, picnics in the park or a few drinks in a pub garden. Not only does socialising help prevent loneliness, but it’s also known to lower stress, sharpen memory and increase our overall happiness.