Empowering Youth Mental Health This Summer
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Summer in Camden County means sunshine, freedom, and sometimes a little too much screen time. While the break from school can be refreshing, it can also throw routines off-track and leave kids feeling a bit disconnected. Nearly half of parents worry about their child’s mental health during the summer months, citing concerns like boredom, too much screen time, and a lack of structure (Child Mind Institute, 2025).
The good news is that small shifts at home can make a big difference.
When kids feel connected and supported, they are more resilient, confident, and better equipped to handle life’s challenges. Here are a few ways families can make this summer one of connection, growth, and good mental health:
Stay Connected:
Make Time for Friends: Encourage your child to set up video calls, group games, or bike rides with friends. Even short hangouts can help them feel seen and valued.
Create Family Moments: Pull out a board game, try a new recipe together, or explore a local park. Shared experiences, whether big or small, help strengthen family bonds.
Reach Out to Other Parents: Connecting with families who have kids around the same age can spark new friendships for children and provide support for parents as well. Try planning a shared outing or casual playdate.
Try Something New: Whether it’s painting, learning to cook, or joining a summer program, trying something different can build confidence and social skills. Here are a few local opportunities:
- Camden County 4-H
- Camden County Public Library’s Summer Reading Program
- Camden Parks and Recreation
- Camden History & Welcome Center
- Day camps and various other community activities
Create a Healthy Structure:
Spend Time Outdoors: Fresh air and green spaces are natural mood boosters. Backyard adventures, nature walks, or even sitting outside can help kids recharge.
Set a Gentle Routine: A simple daily rhythm with consistent meals, movement, and rest helps kids feel safe and balanced without leaving them feeling restricted.
Talk About Screen Time: Not all screen time is harmful, but too much can affect mood and sleep. Consider creating screen-free times at home and talk openly about what your child sees and experiences online.
Keep Communication Open:
Check In and Listen: Let your child know it is okay to talk about feelings, even the tough ones. Be present, listen without trying to fix everything, and remind them they are not alone.
Know When to Ask for Help: If your child seems consistently sad, anxious, or withdrawn, support is available. In 2023, nearly 40 percent of high school students reported feeling persistently hopeless (CDC, 2024). Reaching out is a sign of strength.
Need Additional Support?
Camden County families can access local programs and statewide mental health resources like the ones linked below:
Together, we can make this summer a season of connection, joy, and emotional well-being for every child in our community.
To connect, please email kristi_willard@ncsu.edu or call the Camden Extension Center at 252-331-7630.
Sources:
- Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). (2024). Youth Risk Behavior Survey: Mental Health Trends.
- Child Mind Institute. (2025). Summer and Mental Health: What Families Should Know.
- Pew Research Center. (2025). Teens, Social Media and Mental Health.