Summer Shouldn't Burn You Out: A Connecticut Therapist's Guide to Easing the Pressure on Parents

When we think of summer in Connecticut, we often imagine lazy beach days, family road trips, and long evenings under the stars. But for many parents, summer brings something else entirely: a rising tide of burnout. Between juggling work (still fully on), entertaining kids, planning vacations, coordinating camps, and trying to make every weekend "memorable," the season can start to feel more exhausting than enjoyable.

If you've found yourself feeling short-tempered, overwhelmed, or guilty for not doing "enough," you're not alone. In my work as a psychologist supporting individuals and families across Connecticut, I've seen summer burnout show up in ways that are easy to miss-and important to tend to, and have experienced it myself as a mom.

Summer joy doesn’t have to be big or busy. Sometimes the best memories come from slowing down and simply letting kids be kids.

Why Summer Can Be Draining for Parents

1. The mental load doesn't take a vacation.

While your kids may be off school, your responsibilities often aren't. Coordinating childcare,

adjusting work schedules, and managing household tasks can make daily life feel like a logistical puzzle.

2. High expectations for "making memories."

Connecticut offers so many ways to make summer magical: Lake Compounce, local fairs, hiking in Sleeping Giant, or day trips to the shore. But when joy turns into pressure, the fun quickly fades.

3. Lack of structure adds stress.

Many parents thrive on the routine the school year brings. The summer "free-for-all" can feel

disorienting and leave you with less time to care for your own needs.

4. You're likely still carrying winter's emotional fatigue.

Especially in New England, we often don't realize how deeply months of stress, isolation, or

seasonal depression can linger. When summer comes, we expect ourselves to bounce back fast- but healing takes time.

5 Gentle Ways to Lower the Pressure This Summer

1. Recalibrate your expectations.

You don't need to squeeze every drop out of the season. One meaningful moment with your

child-laughing over popsicles, sitting together on the porch-can be more powerful than a packed calendar.

2. Prioritize rest, not just activity.

Your nervous system needs downtime. Schedule low-effort days: indoor movies, sprinkler play, quiet mornings. Slowness is not laziness-it's regulation.

3. Make space for your own needs.

If you're burning out, it's likely because your own needs aren't being met. What would 10 minutes a day for yourself look like? A walk around the block, breathwork, or simply silence?

4. Share the load.

Whether it's a spouse, co-parent, grandparent, or friend-ask for support. Swap childcare with

another family, let someone else handle dinner, or take a solo hour without guilt.

5. Be honest with your kids.

You don't have to perform perfection. Modeling emotional awareness ("I'm feeling really tired today") teaches your children emotional intelligence and shows that even adults need care.

Final Thought: Permission to Slow Down

Summer doesn't need to be a performance. It's okay if your vacation plans fall through. It's okay if your kids watch more screens than usual. And it's absolutely okay if you're not soaking up every second with a smile.

Sometimes the best summer memories are made when we let go of the pressure and simply be. If you're feeling burnt out and need support navigating parenting, relationships, or your own inner world, I'm here to help. I offer online therapy for adults and couples throughout Connecticut and Arizona. You can learn more about my approach on my website or schedule a free consultation to talk more.