Why You Should Start Therapy in the Summer
Why Vancouverites Should Start Therapy in the Summer
When the sun is out, school is out, and the beach is calling life often feels easier and the stresses of the fall and winter seem to fade away. While there is a lot to do in the summer, the summer season offers a unique opportunity for growth, healing, and self-reflection. While vacations and outdoor adventures are commonly associated with this time of year, it’s important not to overlook the benefits of starting therapy during the summer months. Summer in Vancouver is a time when the city comes alive with outdoor adventures, cultural events, and a vibrant atmosphere. Amidst this backdrop of sunshine and natural beauty, starting therapy during the summer months can be a wise decision. Not only does it allow you to leverage the benefits of the season, but it also takes into account specific factors that affect therapy accessibility in Vancouver. Whether you’re seeking personal growth, battling mental health challenges, or simply looking to enhance your overall well-being, embracing therapy during the summer can be a transformative and empowering experience.
1. Seize the Opportunity to Beat the Fall Waitlists
In Vancouver, therapists can experience larger waitlists during the fall season as many individuals seek therapy to address various challenges. By starting therapy during the summer, you proactively take advantage of a period with potentially shorter waitlists. This ensures you can access the support and guidance you need without delays, enabling you to make progress and work through any concerns effectively.
2. Mitigate the Impact of Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD)
Vancouver’s damp and gloomy winters can contribute to Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD), a type of depression that occurs during specific seasons. By starting therapy in the summer, you can proactively address any existing mental health concerns or develop coping strategies to manage potential SAD symptoms when winter arrives. Therapy can equip you with tools to navigate the emotional challenges associated with the darker months, enhancing your overall well-being.
3. Harness Your Summer Energy & Motivation
Vancouver’s summer brings longer days filled with natural light, which can significantly impact mood and energy levels. Engaging in therapy during this season allows you to harness the positive energy that summer offers, boosting your motivation and optimism. It can be beneficial to reach out for therapy when your motivation levels are high and you have the energy and space to try something new. The vibrant atmosphere becomes an ally in your therapeutic journey, helping you approach sessions with a refreshed mindset and greater enthusiasm.
4. Connect with Nature for Enhanced Healing
Vancouver’s stunning natural surroundings provide ample opportunities to incorporate nature into therapy sessions. From walks along the seawall to sessions in beautiful parks, integrating outdoor elements into therapy can deepen your connection with nature and amplify the therapeutic benefits. Utilizing the summer season to engage in nature-based therapy can cultivate mindfulness, reduce stress, and enhance your overall well-being.
5. Transition and Growth in a Supportive Environment
Summer symbolizes transition and growth, and starting therapy during this season aligns your personal development with the transformative energy of the time. Vancouver’s diverse community and supportive therapy networks offer the chance to connect with others who share similar struggles or goals. By joining therapy groups or community events, you create a support system that fosters belonging and encourages growth during your therapeutic journey. We know that especially for students and parents the fall gets busy and it can be hard to find the time to start something new. Starting therapy in the summer can be a great way to get the support you need ready for when you need it later.
Ready to Start Therapy?
Summer serves as a powerful catalyst for growth, rejuvenation, and self-reflection. By starting therapy during this season, you embrace an optimal environment for personal development and well-being. With longer days, increased energy, and a greater connection to nature, therapy becomes an avenue for profound healing and self-discovery. We know that the fall and winter hold more difficulties for many people, whether that’s increased commitments or challenges with mood and mental health. Finding the right therapist now can be a preventative measure to support your mental health later. Whether you’re taking the first step or continuing your therapeutic journey, make the most of this season and embrace the transformative power of therapy in the summer.
