Summer is supposed to feel lighter. Longer days, warmer weather and maybe even a break in routine. But for many people, summer brings a different kind of pressure—one that can lead to a sneaky form of burnout.
At TherapyWorks, we see it all the time. The expectation to “make the most” of summer can leave people stretched thin—juggling family schedules, trying to plan vacations, working full-time and feeling guilty if they’re not soaking up every minute. Add in the pressure of social media perfection (hello, highlight reels of summer adventures), and it’s easy to feel like you’re falling behind—even in the season meant for slowing down.
What is Summer Burnout?
Summer burnout is that combination of physical exhaustion, mental fatigue and emotional depletion that comes when you’re overbooked, overheated and overwhelmed—but still trying to “keep it all fun.” It often shows up as irritability, low motivation, trouble sleeping or feeling disconnected from your own needs.
At TherapyWorks, we often hear from clients who feel guilty for struggling during a season that’s “supposed” to feel carefree. But the truth is, summer burnout is real—and surprisingly common.
The good news? It’s preventable—and manageable.
Who’s Most Affected by Summer Burnout?
While anyone can experience burnout in any season, summer has unique stressors that hit certain groups especially hard:
- Parents and caregivers suddenly find themselves juggling camps, childcare gaps, travel plans and the pressure to create magical summer memories for their kids.
- Working professionals often experience disrupted routines, heavier workloads (as teams rotate through vacations), and difficulty finding time to actually rest.
- Teens and college students may feel anxious about what’s next, especially if they’re working summer jobs or preparing for major transitions.
- Teachers and educators may feel pressure to maximize their “break” while also recovering from a high-stress school year.
Common Signs of Summer Burnout
Burnout doesn’t always hit like a wave—sometimes it creeps in. Here are some signs to watch for:
- Mental and physical exhaustion, even after rest;
- Irritability or a shorter fuse than usual;
- Feeling disconnected from your usual joy or motivation;
- Trouble sleeping or getting up in the morning;
- A constant sense that you’re either doing too much or not enough;
- Overwhelm from trying to plan and manage “fun” things; and
- A nagging feeling of guilt for not enjoying summer the way you “should.”
How to Protect Your Peace This Summer
- Simplify your schedule. It’s OK to say no. Summer doesn’t have to be filled to the brim to be memorable.
- Redefine rest. Rest doesn’t always mean sleep (although sleep is so important). It can mean setting your phone down, saying no to one more event, or giving yourself permission to do nothing.
- Prioritize what matters to you. Your summer doesn’t have to look like anyone else’s. Choose what feels nourishing—whether that’s hiking, gardening, doing yoga or reading.
- Give your nervous system a break. Get outside, move your body, breathe deeply. These small resets go a long way.
- Make time for therapy. Therapy doesn’t have to pause just because life feels lighter. In fact, with a more flexible schedule and a little extra daylight, summer can be an ideal season to check in with yourself, process what’s been building, and set intentions for the second half of the year. Make time for therapy—you deserve it, all year long.
Most of all, remember: You aren’t the only one feeling this way and you don’t have to do it all—find someone to talk to or reach out for support.
Maaliea Wilbur, a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, is Founder and CEO of TherapyWorks. For more information, visit mytherapyworks.com.
