The Hidden Stress of Summer for Teens
While summer break often seems like a carefree time, it can be anything but relaxing for teens. The freedom from school routines often brings increased social expectations, peer comparison, and anxiety about body image, relationships, and identity. In Flint, where teens face a range of personal and community stressors, these pressures can feel even more intense. At Maple Leaf Counseling Services, we work closely with families to help teens navigate summer with confidence, healthy coping tools, and emotional support.
Why Summer Can Increase Teen Anxiety
Without the structure of school, many teens are left to fill their time with social media, friend groups, or unstructured activities. This often leads to increased comparison, social anxiety, or pressure to fit in. Platforms like Instagram, TikTok, and Snapchat can create unrealistic expectations about how summer should look—leading some teens to feel left out or “not good enough.”
Teens who already experience anxiety or depression may find their symptoms worsen in the absence of daily structure, academic accountability, or emotional support from school counselors and trusted teachers. Those dealing with trauma, ADHD, or identity struggles may also feel more isolated during this time.
How Parents and Caregivers Can Help
Maple Leaf Counseling Services encourages families to support their teens by maintaining open communication and consistent routines. Start by having regular check-ins about how your teen is feeling—not just what they’re doing. Validate their feelings without judgment and provide safe space for expression.
Encourage balanced schedules that include time for physical activity, sleep, creative outlets, and digital boundaries. A simple daily routine that includes meals together, outdoor time, or even volunteering can provide structure and purpose.
Therapy during summer is also essential. Our Flint-area therapists specialize in working with teens and understand the unique social and emotional challenges they face. Through Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), and individualized support, we help teens develop coping skills, manage social anxiety, and build resilience.
It’s Okay to Ask for Help
If your teen is showing signs of emotional distress—such as withdrawal, changes in appetite or sleep, mood swings, or increased irritability—professional support can make a lasting difference. Therapy provides a confidential space for teens to process their emotions, understand their anxiety, and build healthy responses to social pressure.
Support Your Teen’s Mental Health This Summer
Maple Leaf Counseling Services is here to support teens and families in Flint and across Michigan. Call us today at 989.220.3060 to schedule an appointment and help your teen thrive during summer and beyond.
