The phrase “summer wellness” conjures images of solitary activities like preparing a fresh, citrusy salad or swimming early-morning laps outdoors. While the slower pace of the summer months presents an opportunity to improve our private habits and routines, we can also turn our attention to an aspect of health that’s too often ignored in an individualistic culture: our social relationships. 

July is recognized in the mental health community as Social Wellness Month, and for good reason! According to the CDC, high-quality relationships are linked to an improved ability to manage stress, anxiety and depression; maintain healthy eating and exercise habits; and get better sleep. With its long hours of sunlight and beautiful weather, July is the perfect time to reconnect with friends and family and forge new social bonds. 

Reach out and reconnect 

If you’ve lost touch with friends or loved ones during a busy school year, now is the perfect time to revive those connections. Social anxiety might tell us that a lapsed friendship is somehow shameful, but we tend to apply that shame only to ourselves. If you heard from an old friend after months, or even years, of mutual silence, would you be angry or just delighted to catch up? Send a text, make a phone call, or, better still, jot down a message of gratitude on a card that you send in the mail. 

Quality, not quantity 

Don’t fret about whether you have “enough relationships,” advises Michael Maniacci, a psychologist who practices in Chicago. The psychological benefits of social ties are “support, love, health and a sense of belonging,” none of which is enhanced by putting a lot of pressure on yourself or trying to force comfort in a social group that feels off. Instead, ask yourself which relationships make you feel at-ease and understood. Invest in those. 

Keep it simple 

It’s wonderful to want to make new friends, but the goal of building new relationships from scratch can be overwhelming. Set smaller, more manageable goals instead. Say “yes” to one party invitation that you might have declined, then commit to chatting with two new people before the night is up. Check out structured hobby activities in your area like running clubs, book clubs, choirs or board game nights. 

A good deed a day keeps the doctor away 

Holding open a door, helping a stranger on the subway carry a stroller up the stairs or bringing some treats into the office to share could have surprising health benefits. A 2023 study at the University of Ohio found that participants who engaged in random acts of kindness found greater relief from symptoms of depression or anxiety than those who tried cognitive behavioral therapy or joined a social activity. By diverting our attention away from ourselves and focusing on those around us, we can improve our sense of belonging in our community and, consequently, our wellness. 

Find balance 

Check in with yourself to make sure you’re fulfilling your need for alone time even as you forge those crucial social ties. Many introverts choose to schedule time to themselves just like they schedule social outings – recharging your social battery can be as important as carving out time for connection.