Why You’re Not Always Happy in Summer — And How to Cope

When summer rolls around, many of us expect to feel instantly happier.

The sun is out, vacations are booked, and social media is filled with smiling families, beach days, and adventure.

So why do so many people still feel anxious, depressed, or emotionally drained this time of year?

If you’ve ever found yourself thinking, “I should be happy right now… so why am I not?” — you’re not alone.

At Innova Therapy, we work with clients who experience summer depression, seasonal anxiety, or emotional burnout, during what is “supposed” to be the happiest season of the year.

Let’s explore why this happens — and how to cope in a healthy, grounded way.

Summer happiness is a myth. Many people struggle with anxiety, depression, and burnout even when the sun is out and smiling.

Why Summer Can Be Emotionally Challenging

Even though the weather improves, many internal struggles don’t just melt away in the sunshine. In fact, summer can amplify certain mental health challenges:

Social Pressure to Be Happy

The cultural messaging around summer is clear: You should be outside, having fun, and feeling great. This expectation can create guilt or shame when your emotional reality doesn’t match the season.

Disrupted Routines

Whether it’s kids out of school, changing work schedules, or travel plans, summer often throws off the structure that helps people stay emotionally regulated.

Loneliness

Summer can be an isolating time—especially for young adults, single individuals, or those without a close social circle. Everyone seems busy… except you.

Body Image & Comparison

Warmer weather brings more body exposure—and with it, more body anxiety and comparison. This can deeply affect self-esteem and mood.

Heat-Triggered Stress & Fatigue

For some, intense summer heat worsens irritability, fatigue, and even sleep quality — all of which affect mental health.

Grounding Tips to Support Your Mental Health This Summer

The good news? You don’t need to force yourself to be happy. You can support your mental well-being with gentle, realistic strategies that help you feel more like yourself again.

Reading outdoors is good for mental health in the summer - Innova Therapy Coquitlam

Give Yourself Permission to Feel Off

You don’t need to “earn” your emotions. It’s valid to feel anxious or low, even in July. Try naming how you feel without judgment.

Stick to a Light Daily Routine

Consistency helps. Even if summer throws off your usual rhythm, you can set a simple daily anchor like a morning walk, journaling, or a regular bedtime.

Limit Social Media When You Feel Triggered

Seeing others’ curated summer happiness can deepen comparison. It’s okay to take a break or unfollow accounts that drain you.

Schedule Downtime

Even fun events can be draining. Protect your energy with unscheduled days or quiet evenings. Rest is not wasted time — it’s recovery.

Talk to Someone

Therapy isn’t just for emergencies, or when you are in a crisis. A session with a counsellor can help you process what you’re feeling and explore ways to cope — especially during emotional seasons like summer.

You Don’t Have to Navigate Life Alone

At Innova Therapy, we understand that summer isn’t automatically joyful for everyone. Whether you’re dealing with seasonal depression, relationship tension, or just feeling emotionally “off,” our teams in Coquitlam, Maple Ridge, Cobble Hill and Vancouver are here to support you.

You deserve to feel seen, understood and accepted — no matter what the season.