Baptist Health cautions about hidden mental health risks of summer

ELIZABETHTOWN, KY (June 25, 2026) - Mental health challenges are often associated with the winter months when shorter days and reduced sunlight can contribute to seasonal depression. However, summer can also pose mental health risks for both children and adults.

For parents and children, the loss of the school-year routine often means less predictable daily structure and scheduling. Longer daylight hours can lead to more activities packed into the day, which may leave less time for winding down and maintaining consistent sleep habits. Earlier sunrise times can further affect sleep quality. In addition, higher temperatures can contribute to irritability and stress.

Older adults or individuals who are unable to participate in traditional summer activities may experience increased isolation. Seeing others’ summer vacations and outings on social media can intensify feelings of sadness or loneliness. 

Financial pressures can also increase during the summer months, especially with costs related to vacation travel, childcare, camps and anticipated back-to-school expenses.

For some individuals, seasonal events such as fireworks may also be distressing, particularly for those living with post-traumatic stress disorder or heightened sensitivity to loud noises.

These combined stressors can contribute to anxiety, mood changes and emotional strain. Imran Iqbal, MD, psychiatrist with Baptist Health Medical Group Behavioral Health in Elizabethtown, says summer-related mental health changes are often overlooked because they do not match common assumptions about seasonal depression.

“People often associate seasonal mood changes with winter, but summer can also disrupt routines in ways that affect sleep, stress and overall emotional balance,” said Dr. Iqbal. “Hot weather, schedule changes and increased social and financial pressures can all contribute to irritability, anxiety and depression. Recognizing those changes early and maintaining consistent routines can make a meaningful difference.”

Dr. Iqbal recommends maintaining consistent sleep and daily routines whenever possible, prioritizing social connection, and building intentional structure into summer schedules. Small habits such as regular meals, hydration, physical activity and planned check-ins with friends or family can help support emotional health. Limiting time on social media may also help reduce feelings of comparison, isolation or missing out.

For those experiencing financial stress, setting realistic expectations, creating a budget for summer activities and focusing on low-cost or free opportunities for recreation can help reduce anxiety. Families may also benefit from discussing financial plans openly and prioritizing activities that fit within their means.

Individuals living with post-traumatic stress disorder or sensitivity to loud noises may find it helpful to plan ahead for fireworks displays and other seasonal events. Using noise-canceling headphones, spending time in quieter environments or talking with friends and family about potential triggers can help reduce distress. Loved ones can offer support by being mindful of known triggers and checking in regularly during times that may be challenging.

Parents are also encouraged to monitor children and teens for changes in behavior, including withdrawal, irritability, sleep changes or loss of interest in activities they normally enjoy.

Baptist Health offers services and care for individuals experiencing mental health concerns throughout the year. For more information, visit BaptistHealth.com or call 270.979.7171 to schedule an appointment.