Helping Teens Beat the Summertime Blues
By: Lynne Gallagher, LICSW and Kristen Padgett, CHW
For many teens, summer vacation is something they look forward to for weeks—because it can mean freedom, adventure, and rest. But for others, it can be a time of anxiety and uncertainty. Without the structure of school, daily social interactions, or access to teachers and other school staff, some teens face what is often referred to as the “summertime blues.” And while they may never admit it, teens often thrive on structure. When that structure disappears, it can leave them feeling lost, affecting their mood, motivation, and sense of connection.
Unlike seasonal affective disorder—which typically happens in the winter—this summer slump is more about the disruption of routine. Teens go from packed schedules and regular contact with friends to long days with little structure. Research published in JMIR Mental Health suggests that teens often turn to platforms like TikTok to share feelings of depression and loneliness during unstructured times like summer break. This shows how visible—and relatable—these emotions can be.
As parents and caregivers, we may think summer is a time to relax and recharge. You may remember endless days of play and relaxation from your own childhood. But it is important to recognize the signs that your teen may be struggling. Lack of motivation, a sudden disinterest in hobbies they once loved, and withdrawal from family and friends can all be signals that something deeper is going on.
So, what can we do to help?
Start with conversation. Even simple questions can help open the door. Ask your teen how they are feeling, and really listen to what they say. That means avoiding the urge to fix or explain things away. Just being present and nonjudgmental goes a long way.
If you or someone you know needs immediate help, the Vinfen Crisis Hotline (866-388-2242) is available 24-7. Click here for more information.
According to UNICEF Parenting tips, acknowledging a teen’s feelings helps them feel secure enough to open up. Teens are more likely to share when they are not afraid of being judged or dismissed. It is also important to validate their feelings. Even if a teen’s stressors may seem small from an adult perspective, what they are feeling is real.
Another tip: share your own emotions. SAMHSA recommends that parents demonstrate open communication—for example, by talking about their own feelings—to encourage teens to do the same. This might mean saying something like, “I’ve been feeling overwhelmed lately—how about you?” rather than making assumptions about what a teen might be going through. Guessing at their behavior can come off as judgmental and erode trust.
Of course, not every teen is ready to talk. Some may need more time or different ways to express themselves. That is something we see frequently in Lowell CHC’s School-Based Health Center, which is why we know creating a safe space is so important. Encourage your teen to talk about the highs and lows of their day, even briefly. Daily check-ins—without pressure—can plant seeds for deeper conversations down the line.
It is also worth remembering that some emotional shifts may be part of normal adolescent development. But if sadness lingers or begins to affect sleep, appetite, or self-worth, professional help may be needed. Parents should not hesitate to reach out to a pediatrician, therapist, or our school-based resources for support.
For families in our community, the School-Based Health Center (SBHC) is open all summer and available to help. You can learn more about us and how to contact us at lchealth.org.
Whether it is checking in on mental health, managing stress, or getting connected to additional care, you do not have to go through it alone—and that is so important for parents and caregivers to remember. This can quickly become overwhelming for you too without the right support.
Peer Health Exchange notes that teens are often juggling so much that they struggle to find the words to describe how they feel. That is why our support—whether as parents, mentors, or community members—matters so much. It is not about having all the answers. It is about showing up, checking in, and helping teens feel understood and supported.
So this summer, let us keep the doors of communication open—make that your priority. Because talking about our emotions is not just helpful, it is healthy. And for teens navigating the uncertainty of their summers, knowing they are not alone might be the best kind of freedom there is.
