There is a sense of urgency that comes with the idea of the last summer, especially if you are a female in your mid to late twenties. Things change quickly and without warning. Pregnancy tests are positive and rings are put on fingers. Instead of booking wild holidays of backpacking and bar-crawling, your annual leave is suddenly taken up by a trip to the Cotswolds for yet another a wedding.

Life moves ever so fast, and the heady days of youth start slipping through your fingers. So, how do you deal with changes, especially to friendships?

“As young women progress through life, the dynamics of their friendship groups can change for various reasons, such as relocation, personal growth, or new relationships,” Baker notes. “Thankfully, there are also some other mechanisms to help you cope too.”

“Begin by trying to understand that change is a natural part of life and friendships. Embrace the growth and development of yourself and your friends. Maintain open and honest communication about your feelings and concerns regarding the changing dynamics. Be willing to adapt to new situations and embrace new friendships. This may involve being open to forming connections with new people or adjusting the way you interact with your current friends. Take the time to reflect on your own personal growth and development and most importantly, make an effort to stay in touch with your friends, even if life is changing rapidly. Regularly reach out, plan activities, and maintain your shared interests.”

Finally, Baker urges that a ‘last summer’ activity – whether it be a holiday, a night out, or a summer spent making memories – will help you cope with transitions. “Doing something like this and making a big deal of it, will reinforce relationships,” she says. “I think these experiences can help create strategies to deal with the shifts in the long run.”

There you have it. Go forth and make the summer one to remember. Squeeze every last drop of those glorious days with just your best girls. Because you never know when your summer of freedom and fun will be the last.

What is the ‘last summer’ and how can it help your female friendships?