Just as the first warm winds of summer grace Scranton, Pennsylvania, we see a peculiar
shift in our practice at Puglisi Counseling, LLC. As vacations get booked and beach towels are
dusted off, therapy appointments mysteriously begin to ebb. It’s an intriguing pattern that reflects
the wider societal rhythm of work and leisure. Just like gym attendance declines post-January
resolution spike, therapy sessions tend to dip as summer commences. Yet, there’s a critical
distinction between these scenarios. While a gym resolution might come and go, mental health
isn’t a fleeting commitment. It requires continuous care, regardless of the season, much like a
garden needs regular watering to bloom.
Summer Freedom: A Mirage in Mental Health Maintenance?
We all love the idea of liberation that summer tends to bring with the idea of swimming
and the sun. There’s something about the promise of long, lazy days and balmy nights that
beckons us towards freedom, urging us to shed the responsibilities of the rest of the year. The
seductive power of summer cannot be understated, luring many away from their therapy routines
with its siren song. However, it’s worth pausing to remember that mental health conditions like
anxiety, depression, and Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) aren’t as seasonal as a summer
wardrobe. They don’t pack their bags and jet off to Bermuda for three months, leaving you
symptom-free. Mental health issues persist, as constant as the evergreen, and they need to be
attended to regardless of the time of the year.
Unpacking Summer Therapy Myths: The Long-Term Impact
At first glance, skipping a few therapy sessions during the summer might seem as
inconsequential as forgetting to apply sunscreen on a cloudy day. However, just like that
deceptive sunburn that appears when you least expect it, neglecting your mental health services
during these sun-soaked months can have long-term implications. A break in therapy can disrupt
the rhythm of progress, like forgetting the steps of a dance. It may lead to an interruption in your
ability to manage your mental health effectively, making it harder to get back on track once the
leaves start to fall. In essence, consistency is vital.
The Power of Continuity: Therapy Beyond Seasons
Consistency in therapy is like learning a musical instrument. You don’t become proficient by
practicing sporadically. It’s the regular rehearsals that build skill, confidence, and progress.
Similarly, a steady relationship with a mental health professional offers a safe space to navigate
and manage emotions, fostering resilience and adaptability.
Contrary to the perception of therapy as a winter pursuit, therapy is a year-round endeavor.
Consistent therapy isn’t about resisting summer’s charm; it’s about creating a reliable support
system that stands strong, regardless of the changing seasons.
Rather than seeing summer as a break from therapy, let’s shift our perception. Just as we
consciously make time for vacation, why not make time for our mental health? After all, our
minds deserve as much care and relaxation as our bodies do.
Summer Opportunities: Outdoor Sessions and Nature Therapy
Summer, with its generous daylight and warmer temperatures, could be an opportunity to engage
more deeply with our mental health journey. It’s a chance to bask in self-awareness and
understanding, much like sunbathing, but for the soul.
And who said therapy needs to be confined to four walls? Summer is ripe with opportunities to
embrace alternative therapy environments. Perhaps you could try a walking therapy session,
breathing in the serenity of nature while discussing your week’s highs and lows.
The season lends itself well to a different kind of mental health engagement. By combining the
benefits of therapy with the therapeutic properties of nature, you might find new perspectives
and insights flourishing amidst the lush summer greenery.
The ‘Always-On’ Support: Psychiatry and Mental Health Services
Here at Puglisi Counseling, we stand committed to offering uninterrupted support throughout the
year. Our psychiatry and mental health services are tailored to ensure you receive the support
needed, whether it’s under the blossoming trees of spring or the rich colors of autumn. Because,
in the end, the best time for therapy is always ‘now’. It’s a year-round commitment that promotes
resilience, greater self-understanding, and an improved overall well-being.
Your mental health matters to us, no matter the season. If you find yourself grappling with
anxiety, depression, PTSD, or any other mental health concerns this summer, please don’t
hesitate to reach out to our team at Puglisi Counseling, LLC. We’re here to provide the support
and guidance you need, helping you navigate through these challenges and towards a healthier,
more balanced mindset. Remember, therapy isn’t just a seasonal pursuit — it’s a year-round
commitment to your well-being. We’re here whenever you’re ready to start or continue that
journey.
