WVU CED's Mental Health Specialist offers summer mental health tips

Exercising your mental health and not just protecting it.

Monday, May 18, 2026

In celebration of Mental Health Month, the CED's Mental Health Specialist, Eric Murphy, has offered some mental health tips to keep you healthy and connected throughout the summer months.

• This summer, don’t just focus on keeping things comfortable — focus on building confidence and capacity. Summer is a chance to practice independence, flexibility, problem-solving, and trying new experiences in real life.
   
• Use the slower pace of summer to talk openly about emotions and stress. Long breaks in routine can bring anxiety, frustration, loneliness, or overstimulation. Help your loved one name what they’re feeling instead of hiding from it or feeling ashamed of it.
   
• Create opportunities for participation, not just protection. Let summer be a season for contribution — helping with cookouts, community events, chores, camps, volunteering, hobbies, or small jobs that build purpose and self-worth.
   
• Practice courage in small summer moments. Trying a new activity, introducing yourself, going to a community event, making a phone call, or recovering from an awkward interaction are all ways courage grows over time.
   
• Build connection before isolation sets in. Summer can either increase community or increase withdrawal. Stay connected to your village — family, peers, mentors, programs, faith communities, and supportive spaces that help everyone continue growing together.

Learn more about Mental Health Services at the CED.