by Kayleigh Monahan, LMSW

Summertime is always a time we look forward to, especially as New Yorkers. Gone are the gray days of winter and the cold and we welcome in the bright sun and warmth. The summer months are a great time to utilize the outdoors to help increase your coping skills and overall mental health.

The National Council for Mental Well-being lists a few ideas on their website, I’ve pulled a few of my favorites to help you start with some ideas!
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1) Relax outside for a change
While the appeal of the Air Conditioning and a comfortable seat inside can be great over the summer. As the sun begins to go down and the temperature outside cools you can take your book outside for a bit. The fresh air and change of scenery often help us to avoid getting stuck in a depressive mindset.

by Jayoti Chabra, LMSW

​Procrastination is the action of delaying or postponing something.
 
This issue can be linked to depression, anxiety, low self-esteem, and poor study habits. Procrastination is connected to negative functioning and risks to mental health. People who procrastinate tend to have high levels of anxiety as well as poor impulse control. Procrastination is even linked to physical illness.
 
Triggers for procrastinators:
 

• The task is boring.                                                                
• The task is difficult.
• The task is frustrating.
• The task is ambiguous or unstructured.
• The task lacks personal meaning for you.