Summer brings a mix of experiences for college students—some are diving into new classes, others are traveling, interning, working, or finally taking time to relax. No matter what your summer looks like, it can be a season of both opportunity and unexpected stress. At Connections Health, we’re here to support you in building emotional resilience and managing stress with intention. Below, we’ve shared a few approachable and actionable tips to help you move through the summer with clarity, balance, and care.
1. Set Manageable Goals (And Give Yourself Grace)
You don’t need to do everything at once. Try breaking large assignments or long-term goals into smaller, manageable steps. Remember, success is a process—and progress doesn’t always look linear. If you miss a deadline or stumble along the way, it’s okay. Self-compassion is a key part of sustainable success.
Example: If you’re in summer classes, instead of setting a goal to “finish a 15-page paper,” set a goal to “draft the outline” by Tuesday and “write 2-3 pages” by Thursday. If you’re taking a break, set a goal to create a simple morning routine, read one book you’ve been curious about, or spend a few afternoons offline.
2. Create a Flexible Routine
Routines can help you feel more in control, especially during times of transition. Build a weekly structure that includes class time, study blocks, rest, meals, and social connections. Importantly, make your routine flexible enough to account for changes and new demands. Your schedule should support you, not stress you out.
Example: Block out key time periods for class and studying but leave one or two “open” periods during the week to use as needed—for rest, errands, or spontaneous plans. Even if you’re taking the summer off classes, creating a flexible schedule will allow you the space to truly reset.
3. Prioritize Mental Breaks
Whether you’re interning, studying, or juggling both this summer, your brain needs time to recharge. Academic life and early career experiences can be intense—especially when you’re trying to make a good impression or keep up with deadlines. Build in short, intentional breaks between tasks to rest your mind and body. Step outside. Stretch. Breathe deeply. Journal for 10 minutes. These moments of pause can help prevent burnout and boost your focus when you return.
Example: After every 90-minute study session or work task, take a 10-minute walk outside, stretch at your desk, or try a guided meditation on a mindfulness app like Headspace or Insight Timer.
4. Ask for Support Early
It’s never too early to reach out. Whether you’re experiencing anxiety, struggling with motivation, or feeling isolated, support is available. Connections Health offers a wide range of mental health services designed for Northwestern students as well as broader college and graduate student counseling options. If you’re feeling overwhelmed after the first few weeks of classes, schedule a consultation with a counselor instead of waiting until midterms.
Finding Support with Connections Health
We understand that the demands of college life are complex. That’s why we offer individualized therapy, group counseling, and workshops that address the unique needs of students.
If you’re looking for a supportive space to manage stress, strengthen coping skills, or build self-confidence, group therapy can complement your individual care.
Ready to feel more grounded this Summer? Contact Connections Health to schedule an appointment or learn more about how we can support you.
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