Summer is painted as the season of freedom and fun for teens—but the reality isn’t always so carefree. While the school year can certainly feel hectic and stressful, it also offers structure, routine, and connection. When that disappears for two or three months, some teens are left feeling lost, isolated, or overwhelmed
The Unstructured Nature of Summer
Without daily classes, sports practices, and interactions with peers, many teens experience a lack of direction. Days can feel long and empty. This unstructured time can lead to boredom, poor eating and sleeping habits, increased screen time, and a drop in overall motivation and mood. For teens already dealing with anxiety, depression, or substance use, the absence of structure can worsen symptoms or increase risky behaviors.
“Some kids are so busy during the school year that their mental health falls to the wayside,” says Maddy Omrod, LCSW. “Summer can actually be an opportunity to take a breath and really focus on their mental health and happiness.”
Social Disconnection and Loneliness
While school offers constant social interaction, summer can bring an unexpected sense of disconnection. Teens may lose contact with their usual friend groups or feel left out as others travel or make plans without them. For teens who already struggle with self-esteem or social anxiety, this can be a particularly painful time—leading to increased feelings of loneliness and worthlessness.
“Lack of structure is tough, but the social disconnection can be even harder,” Omrod explains. “And it’s not just missing peers. Trusted adults—teachers, counselors, nurses, administrators—often have a pulse on how kids are doing. When school ends, that network disappears.”
She also adds that school can serve as a stabilizing presence: “Some students rely on seeing those trusted adults day to day. When that vanishes, it can make a vulnerable teen feel even more adrift.”
Increased Risk Factors
With more idle time and fewer watchful eyes, teens are also more vulnerable to substance use during the summer. They may face less accountability, and with fewer responsible adult eyes on them, emotional struggles that might have been noticed during the school year can go undetected for weeks or months—making timely intervention more difficult.
“Cannabis misuse is huge right now,” says Omrod. “It’s incredibly accessible. Some kids are high all day, every day.”
She also points to a rise in school refusal, self-harm, disordered eating, and lingering post-pandemic struggles. “Some kids still feel socially stunted,” she shares. “They are afraid they won’t know how to make new friends when they go to college. Group therapy can help fill in those gaps.”
How ETHOS Treatment Can Help
ETHOS Treatment offers specialized, flexible support for adolescents ages 13–17 who are struggling with mental health or substance use challenges. ETHOS’s Intensive Outpatient Programs (IOP) are available in person at several locations or via telehealth, making them accessible and convenient for families during the summer months.
“Summer is a perfect time for teens to work on their mental health or recovery in an IOP program,” says Omrod. “They can really dig in, reflect, and heal. It’s good for kids who’ve had a rough year and need some space to focus on their wellness. IOPs are also very powerful for averting potential crises. When you’re not in damage control mode and are instead being proactive, you can have huge positive breakthroughs.”
Teens continue to live at home and can participate in everyday life while attending structured group therapy, family sessions, and individual support. Most importantly, they gain tools to manage emotions, build resilience, and prepare for a healthier, more balanced future.
To learn more, visit https://www.ethostreatment.com, call 267-669-0300, or email intake@ethostreatment.com.
About Ethos Treatment
Ethos Treatment LLC is a behavioral healthcare provider accredited by The Joint Commission to treat mental health conditions and substance use disorders. Licensed clinicians lead Intensive Outpatient Programs in Pennsylvania via telehealth and at seven locations: Broomall, Collegeville, Jenkintown, Philadelphia, Plymouth Meeting, West Chester and Wyomissing. Ethos accepts most insurance.