Why You Feel More Anxious In The Summer

(And No, It’s Not Just the Heat or the Kids)

Summer is supposed to be the easy season, right?

Beach days. No school drop-offs. A chance to slow down.

And yet, if you’re clenching your iced coffee like a lifeline and wondering why you feel more anxious in the summer than ever... you’re not imagining it. And you’re definitely not alone.

I know this feeling well.

One summer, I stood over the grill, hot, tired, covered in bug spray and barbecue sauce, on the verge of tears. I had just spent the entire day outside, watching the kids play in the pool. They had snacks, towels, their favorite pool float, even a surprise popsicle round.

But the second we stepped inside to get ready for dinner, the screaming started.

It wasn’t over anything big, just someone getting the wrong color plate or a sibling sitting in their chair. But it felt like too much.

And in that moment, I thought: I did everything right for them today. Why do I still feel like I’m drowning?

That’s when I realized, summer can feel like one big emotional contradiction.We’re sold this vision of joy, rest, and Pinterest perfect memories -  but the reality? It’s often chaotic, overstimulating, and relentless.

Let’s break it down a little.

You Are More Anxious In The Summer Because Summer Brings:

1. Lack of routine = major anxiety trigger

During the school year, we have a built-in roadmap. Even if it’s hectic, it’s predictable.But in summer? Even if your kids are in camp, there is less structure, less demand for them to perform. Then they get home and suddenly it’s up to you to keep the peace, and answer the constant “what’s next?” The mental load skyrockets, and so does your anxiety.

2. The pressure to “make memories” is real

Social media makes it look like every other mom is doing color-coded crafts, beach vacations, and coordinating outfits. Meanwhile, you’re just trying to get everyone to brush their teeth every night and not argue about putting the sun screen on again when they spend all day in the sun. The invisible pressure to soak up every moment can leave you feeling like you’re constantly falling short.

3. You never really clock out

Let’s be real: summer can feel like a 24/7 shift with no breaks.No school. No structure. Endless snacks. Someone always needing something.Add in work, caregiving, or your own mental health into the mix? It’s a recipe for burnout.

The summer brings more space. More questions. More “Mom, what’s next?” And guess who has to answer every single one?

Yep. You.

So if you’ve been wondering,“Why am I so anxious right now?” Or “Why does everyone else seem to love summer while I’m barely hanging on?”

I want you to hear this loud and clear: You are not alone. And you are not broken.

You’re a mom navigating a season that demands a lot, and gives very little back unless you actively carve something out for yourself.

Even if it’s five quiet minutes in your car mindlessly scrolling Tik Tok. That counts.

Even if it’s hiding in the bathroom to breathe. That counts, too.

You don’t have to do this alone.

That’s why I created the Survive The Summer Series, a free weekly email with real-life encouragement, gentle mindset shifts, and practical support to help you feel a little more human, even in the chaos.

Let’s make it through July and August with our sanity (mostly) intact.

Sign up here for the Survive The Summer Series HERE and get your first breath of relief this week.