Why does summer feel so emotional for teens and college students?
And what can you do as a parent?

☀️ Summer is supposed to be relaxing, right?

No alarms.
No homework.
Just rest, fun, and freedom!

So why does your teen or college-aged child seem moody, overwhelmed, or checked out?

If you’re seeing breakdowns, attitude, or grumpiness, you’re not imagining things — summer can actually be a tough season for many young people.

Common Summer Struggles

Even when school is out, emotional challenges can ramp up. You might notice:

· Anxiety, irritability, or anger

· Feeling “blah” or unmotivated

· Oversleeping or trouble sleeping

· Overstimulation from screen time

· Disconnection or loneliness

· Pressure to “make the most” of summer

And parents — if you’re wondering,
“Why are they so stressed when things should be easier?”
you’re not alone.

A Quick Peek at the Teen Brain 🧠

The prefrontal cortex — the part of the brain responsible for emotional regulation and decision-making — is still developing through the teen and early adult years.

This means teens need extra emotional support, even if they’re pushing you away.

👉 Big feelings and mood swings aren’t bad behavior — they’re part of normal growth.

For more insight into the developing brain, I highly recommend:
📘 The Whole-Brain Child by Dr. Dan Siegel
Link to book

Summer Survival Tools for Teens — and Parents

Whether you’re feeling all the feels yourself or supporting someone who is, here are 5 tools to bring back balance:

1. Keep a Mini Routine

A little structure goes a long way. Try anchoring the day with:

· Consistent sleep/wake times

· Morning movement or screen-free time

· A daily check-in, meal, or walk together

Routines help regulate the nervous system and support emotional stability.

2. Name the Emotion

For teens:
Naming feelings like “anxious” or “overwhelmed” helps regulate them.

📌 Print out a feelings wheel and post it in a shared space!
Feelings Wheel Printable

For parents:
Practice simple, validating responses, like:

· “That makes sense.”

· “I’m here if you want to talk.”

Validation = connection.

3. Try Sensory Resets

Emotional regulation doesn’t have to be complicated. Try these quick resets:

· Cold water on the face or wrists

· Deep breathing (Box breathing: Inhale 4 – Hold 4 – Exhale 4 – Hold 4)

· Music that matches the mood, then lifts it

· Movement or stretching

These small tools help the body calm the brain.

4. Protect Rest & Drop the Parent Guilt

Summer doesn’t have to be packed with camps, academics, or travel.

Downtime matters. Even if it looks like zoning out with a screen.

Instead of strict limits, focus on balance:

· Set a timer for screen time

· Follow up with real-life connection (walk, talk, help cook, or clean)

· Keep expectations low and connection high

💡 It’s okay to rest this summer — for both you and your child.

5. Focus on Connection Over Control

Trying to control your teen often leads to resistance.
But connection leads to cooperation.

Inspired by Dr. Becky Kennedy’s book Good Inside — read it here — here’s what helps:

· Spend low-pressure time together (car rides, snacks, shows)

· Ask curious questions without correcting

· Let them choose an activity

· Share your own feelings and favorites

· Try “PNP” time — Play, No Phones

You Don’t Have to Do This Alone

Summer is a season of transitions, identity shifts, and emotional intensity — for teens and parents.

Whether your child is struggling or you’re feeling overwhelmed yourself, therapy can help.

💬 Let’s get through summer together.

I help teens, young adults, and families build:

· Emotional tools

· Self-awareness

· Connection and resilience

📞 Call or text 817-821-7772 to schedule a free consultation or learn more about how I can support your family this summer.

You’ve got this,

Alex

Feeling All the Feels: A Summer Survival Guide for Teens, Young Adults — and Their Parents