As the days grow longer and the pace of life shifts, summer can feel like a welcome break from the ordinary. For many, it brings sunshine, vacations and time with loved ones. For others, it can quietly bring added stress, isolation or pressure to stay productive and “make the most of it.”

At Brown & Brown, our Population Health & Well-Being team recognizes that mental health doesn’t take a summer break. Whether you’re managing childcare without school in session, feeling disconnected while colleagues are on PTO or simply trying to find balance in the heat of the season, summer can bring additional stress and burn-out to any workforce.

Summer is a perfect time to reset, recharge and reconnect. Below are ten ways employers can encourage mental wellbeing this summer season that you can share with your workforce.

1. Embrace slower cycles: It’s normal for some workstreams to slow down in the summer. Use the time to revisit goals, take on a passion project or invest in professional development. Slower doesn’t mean less meaningful.
2. Take (and respect) vacation time: Time off helps prevent burnout and boost focus. Please take your earned PTO, and fully disconnect from work when you do. Leaders are encouraged to model healthy boundaries by truly unplugging.
3. Connect with others: Even in summer, some employees can feel isolated, especially in remote or hybrid roles. Join a virtual coffee break, lunch outing or informal meetup. Find a community organization and become involved. Remember, a quick “how are you?” can go a long way.
4. Support parents and caregivers: Juggling summer camps, family schedules or elder care? Maybe you have the yearly physical or dental exams for the family. Let your manager or HR partner know if you need flexibility—it is very important to support your whole life, not just your workload.
5. Get outside (when you can): Natural light and movement are powerful mood boosters. Get your vitamin D. Take your meeting on a walk, enjoy lunch outdoors or add short stretch breaks to your day. These small habits can have a positive impact.
6. Stay cool, mentally and physically: Rising temperatures can lead to fatigue and irritability. Stay hydrated, pace out your day and take extra care if you’re working in warm environments, whether indoors or outside.
7. Enhance your sense of gratitude: Write down three new things you are grateful for 21 days. Journal your thoughts daily, which can help you to find your daily habits or develop a positive mindset. Practice meditation and create a positive home and work environment.
8. Check in with yourself: How are you, really? Summer is a great time for a personal well-being reset. Reflect, journal or use mental health tools for a mid-year check-in. If you’re struggling, don’t hesitate to reach out for support.
9. Reconnect with colleagues: Take advantage of team-building moments, big or small. Whether it’s an in-person lunch, group volunteer day or a casual catch-up, reconnecting can build trust and ease stress.
10. Use your mental health benefits: Mental health resources should be an integral part of your employee benefits program. Whether it’s short-term counseling with our Employee Assistance Program, digital well-being apps or confidential coaching, it’s encouraged to explore available support.

Let’s Make Summer Healthier Together

Taking care of your mental health is a sign of strength, not weakness. Whether you’re thriving, surviving or somewhere in between, find the best resources that supports the whole you this summer and all year long.

 Dr. Joel Axler

National Behavioral Health Leader