Summer Relationships

Summer: a time for relaxation, days spent soaking up the sun and hanging out with your friends. It’s the time most of us mentally check out because that’s what you need when you’re on break from school. But, for many, this season is the time for romance, whether you’re just interested in a summer fling, a few dates, or possibly finding a long-term relationship.

You may have experienced a hot, steamy summer relationship or fantasized about it happening. In those cases, it’s easy to listen to our hearts rather than our head’s warnings when it comes to summer love.

Summer should be a time of enjoyment and renewal, not one filled with regrets. So here are four tips for navigating those potential relationships.

Don’t Settle for Good Enough

Sometimes we use relationships to boost our self-esteem or keep up with our friends. But unfortunately, lowering dating standards to fit in with the crowd can cause hurt and pain in the long run. So, if your radar is going off when you get asked out, trust your instincts and say ‘no.’ Here’s a mantra to live by: you deserve better! See your worth, stand firm in your decisions, and don’t let somebody talk you into something you’re not ready for.

Have Fun, but Be Safe

Summer dates can be exciting! The best thing you can do for yourself is to have a game plan for those times. Being alone with a guy may seem daring and fun, but let’s be safe and think through some precautions. Seclusion can be dangerous, especially with someone you don’t know well. Always let someone know where you’re going to be, and have your cell phone and cash with you if you need to leave.

Have Realistic Expectations

Long walks on the beach, sharing kisses in a secluded spot, finding that soul mate… doesn’t that sound like a dream? Well, it probably is. When we have those unrealistic expectations, they consume our thoughts, and we try to make that dream a reality. Don’t look at every encounter as an opportunity to find a new relationship. Relax, it’s summer. Spend those days experiencing life instead of obsessing over a fantasy.

Enjoy Time with Your Friends

Remember, summer is not just about new romances; it can be a great time to unwind and spend quality time with your friends. Go have adventures! Hike, bike, soak up the sun, and make some lifetime memories. Enjoy the people who make you feel alive; those are the lasting relationships that matter most. Who knows, maybe someone special is already in your friend group.

If you need somebody to talk to, we’re always a phone call or email away. We hope you have a fun, memorable summer!

< Older Post

Newer Post >

My Friends Are Telling Me to Abort, But I'm Not Ready

June 4, 2025

An unexpected pregnancy can leave you with more questions than answers. Especially when friends are urging you to choose abortion, you may be more confused than ever. While their advice might come from care or fear, it’s essential to remember this is your pregnancy, future, and choice. At Collage, we’re here to help you navigate this pressure and find a path that feels right for you so that you can feel informed and confident about your decision. Reach out to us today for no-cost support. Listen to Your Instincts Your friends might be an important part of your life, but your instincts matter most. If abortion doesn’t feel right, take a moment to ask: What’s holding me back? Maybe you’re picturing parenting your child or are curious about adoption. It’s also important to keep in mind that abortion is a serious procedure that your friends may not fully grasp the details of. Physical and emotional risks are involved, making it a more complex decision. Your hesitation is a sign to slow down and explore, not to rush into a choice you’re not ready for. Talk It Out If your friends keep pressing, try a gentle conversation. Let them know you understand they’re worried, you’re not sure about abortion yet. Ask what’s driving their advice. Maybe they’re scared about your finances or future. Maybe they’re simply telling you what they’d do in your situation, but that doesn’t mean it’s right for you. Understanding their side can ease tension without giving in. If they won’t respect your space, set boundaries and let them know you need time to think. You don’t owe them an immediate answer. Find Your Support Surround yourself with people who’ll lift you up, not pull you down. Write down your thoughts or talk to someone neutral. You can find a counselor or even online spaces where you can share your heart with those who won’t push one option over another. Even a trusted family member, a mentor, or a place like Collage can offer perspective without strings. You deserve to make this decision with clear facts and a steady heart, not under pressure. Help is Available If your friends are pushing abortion but you’re not ready, Collage is here with no-cost lab-quality pregnancy testing, limited obstetric ultrasounds, and pregnancy options education to help you decide what’s next. Our trained team offers confidential support to explore parenting, adoption, or abortion without pressure. Contact us for a no-cost appointment today. You deserve to choose your own path.

Hiding My Pregnancy: Would Abortion Be an Option?

May 21, 2025

An unexpected pregnancy can flip your world upside down, and the urge to keep it under wraps might hit hard. Maybe you’re thinking abortion could erase the situation quietly.

What to Do When Friends and Family Are Pressuring You into an Abortion Decision

April 2, 2025

What do you do when those closest to you start pushing you toward a decision that doesn’t feel right? Pressure from family or friends to choose abortion can leave you feeling stuck, unheard, and unsure of what to do next. How can you hold firm in your decision while dealing with well-meaning but overwhelming advice? Here’s what you can do to navigate this difficult situation with strength and resilience. Mental Health and Pressure Your decision should be your own—one that isn’t influenced by guilt or outside expectations. Studies show that women who feel pressured into abortion are more likely to experience guilt, anxiety, depression, and other negative mental health outcomes. Protecting your mental and emotional health starts with making a choice that aligns with what you truly want. Ways to Handle the Pressure Since you understand why this decision needs to be yours, here are some practical steps to help you handle outside pressure. Give Yourself Time You don’t have to decide right away. Take a moment, think through your feelings, and give yourself the gift to reflect without feeling rushed. You're less likely to regret a decision made on your terms. Learn About All Your Options Abortion isn’t your only choice. Parenting and adoption are also possibilities, each with its own forms of support and resources. Learning more about these options can help you make an informed decision you feel at peace with. Set Boundaries It can be tough to stand your ground when others have strong opinions about your decision. Clearly expressing your thoughts by setting boundaries can help you avoid unwanted pressure. Letting others know you need time and space to think can help shift the conversation away from their influence and back to what’s best for you. Advice from a Third Party Getting a different perspective on your situation can be helpful when seeking advice from someone outside your inner circle. This could be a professional counselor, an online support group, or a caring team member at Collage . You deserve people in your life who want to understand you without judgment. You Are Not Alone Even if those around you don’t fully understand, there are people who do. A supportive environment can make all the difference as you navigate this decision. Collage is here to walk with you during this time. We offer lab-quality pregnancy testing, limited OB ultrasounds, pregnancy options information, and more at no cost so you can get informed and have the support you need to move forward with certainty. Schedule a confidential appointment today.