October 2nd, 2024
This resource article is intended to be for informational purposes only. Any clinical information or advice contained in this article is not intended as a thorough, in-depth delivery of clinical service and does not replace what a clinician would provide during a session in a regular format, and should not be used to form a diagnosis or determine medication usages or frequencies that a physician or other mental health professional would provide. If you or someone you know are facing a crisis situation, please call the BC Crisis Centre at +1.800.784.2433 (1-800-SUICIDE) or visit their website, call 911 or your local emergency line, or visit the nearest emergency room.
It happens to the best of us!
As summer fades and the bustle of autumn begins, many individuals find themselves grappling with the challenge of re-establishing routines. The transition back to school for children or returning to work after a laid-back vacation can feel daunting. The carefree days of summer often leave us longing for a similar pace, making it difficult to slide back into the structure that daily life demands. For both parents and those without children, the struggle to regain momentum can lead to feelings of overwhelm and anxiety, affecting one’s overall sense of mental wellness.
Read on for some resources and further information on how to pick ourselves back up when summer ends and the demands of “life” come rushing back, and how our service providers are equipped to help you get back on track!
Getting lost in the hustle-and-bustle.
Mornings that were once leisurely can suddenly feel like a race against the clock, filled with breakfast battles, school drop-offs, looming deadlines, and more. Amid these pressures, it’s easy to lose sight of personal needs and the essential routines that support a balanced life. As the days grow shorter and the pace quickens, nurturing mental wellness becomes even more critical.
To reclaim a sense of normalcy and maintain mental wellness, it’s vital to first recognize the need for a reset. This acknowledgment is a crucial step in regaining control. For parents, this might mean revisiting family schedules to ensure everyone is on the same page. Those without children, too, can benefit from taking a moment to assess their daily routines. Creating a dedicated space for reflection can be immensely beneficial. Whether it’s a quiet corner at home or a peaceful spot in a local park, setting aside time for introspection allows individuals to identify what worked in the past, and what didn’t.
What should my routine look like?
This differs for everyone, but re-establishing a routine doesn’t have to feel rigid or constrictive. Instead, it can be a fluid process, gently nudging individuals toward a more organized lifestyle. Begin with small, manageable changes. Perhaps this means waking up just fifteen minutes earlier to carve out a moment for mindfulness or establishing a consistent evening ritual that helps wind down after a busy day. It’s important to allow these adjustments to unfold naturally, fostering a sense of ownership over one’s routine rather than feeling like a prisoner to it.
In the midst of this transition, self-compassion becomes an invaluable ally. The journey of returning to a structured lifestyle is not about perfection; it’s about progress. Embracing the occasional slip-up and reminding oneself that it’s okay to have off days can alleviate some of the pressure. For parents, modelling this attitude toward imperfection can also instil resilience in children, teaching them that setbacks are part of life.
How does mental wellness support play in to all of this?
It is essential to recognize that the return to routine often stirs up underlying stresses. This is where the value of seeking support shines through. Engaging with a qualified professional can provide a valuable space for reflection and understanding. Whether it’s delving into the emotions that accompany the return to a busier schedule or exploring strategies to enhance one’s routine, clinical counselling can offer a tailored approach to meet individual needs. Through these conversations, individuals can uncover patterns that may be contributing to their current state, allowing for targeted interventions that promote mental wellness.
Communicating with a professional also helps in creating a supportive network. Often, just vocalizing frustrations and aspirations can provide clarity, paving the way for effective solutions. A qualified expert can guide individuals in establishing realistic goals, helping them to feel more accomplished as they work toward a more balanced routine. This guidance can be particularly beneficial for parents, who may feel the weight of multiple responsibilities and benefit from strategies that streamline their daily lives.
What else can I do to support myself in re-establishing a healthy routine?
As the season shifts, it’s crucial to also foster a sense of community. Engaging with friends, family, or local groups can create a support system that encourages accountability and shared experiences. This might mean scheduling regular catch-ups or finding activities that foster connections, like book clubs or exercise classes. Social interaction not only enriches daily life but can also enhance mental wellness by providing opportunities to unwind and recharge in the company of others.
Incorporating elements of joy and leisure into the daily routine is another effective way to ease the transition back to structure. Rather than viewing free time as a luxury, it’s essential to see it as a vital component of well-being. Carving out moments for hobbies or leisurely pursuits can invigorate daily life, breaking the monotony that sometimes accompanies rigid routines. Allowing oneself the space to engage in enjoyable activities can foster a renewed sense of motivation and energy.
Additionally, integrating mindfulness practices into daily life can serve as an anchor during turbulent times. Simple practices, such as deep breathing or guided meditation, can be effective tools for grounding oneself in the present moment. These techniques help mitigate stress and cultivate a sense of calm, making it easier to navigate the demands of returning to a structured routine. Try the Insight Timer App (it’s free!), and if it’s about other aspects such as mindful alcohol consumption, try Sunnyside (inexpensive but great for accountability).
What’s the takeaway?
Ultimately, the journey back to a routine after summer is a multifaceted process that requires patience and intention. Embracing flexibility, seeking professional support, and engaging with community can transform the experience from one of dread to one of growth. Acknowledging the emotional landscape that accompanies this transition is key to fostering resilience and maintaining mental wellness. As individuals begin to weave these elements into their lives, they can find themselves not only back on track but also more equipped to navigate the complexities of daily living.
With time, commitment, and the right support, regaining a sense of balance becomes not just a possibility but an enriching journey. Embrace the opportunity to reset, and allow this season of change to nurture a deeper connection with oneself and the world around you!
We are proud to offer both counselling and coaching services at Coastality offered by a team of qualified and highly-experienced professionals that can assist individuals and families in these areas.
Ready to join us on a journey to greater mental wellness? Please don’t hesitate to get in touch! Our intake process is simple and quick – simply fill out the contact form, and a member of our team will be in touch within 24 hours for a 10-15 minute phone call to get things started.