- Seasonal depression can occur any time the season transitions
- “Spring Sadness” can be brought about by seasonal allergies
- Experts highlight the importance of physical activity for mental health
When people hear “seasonal depression,” they often think of winter only.
That makes sense – the sun sets early, it’s cold and boring… It’s not difficult to guess why people’s mental health suffers during the cold season.
However, did you know that seasonal affective disorder is not limited to winter?
In fact, moving from winter to warmer seasons like spring or summer can present a unique challenge to someone’s mental state.
Therapist and Clinical Director at Recover Together Bend Dr. David Campbell He told Dailymail.com that there is no proven reason, but there is a theory that this type of seasonal depression is caused by many things.
This includes confusion with everyday life (think all the social obligations of spring and summer), confusion with light (long days can affect circadian rhythms), and increased activity on social media.
Summer is usually when graduation or school breaks happen – it usually drives people to a whole new routine than what is known for months, if not years.
And when it comes to social media, Dr. Campbell said, “Social media platforms are flooded with anxiety related to social engagement and physical problems.”
People may assume that seasonal depression only occurs in the winter, but people also experience “spring grief” due to other factors (stock image)
Psychologist and Professor of Behavioral Psychology Ivo Vlaev He agreed, adding that transitional anxiety and even seasonal allergies can be a reason.
“The change in the spring mark – end of the school year, future deadlines, summer plans,” says Vlaev.
“Movement can surge anxiety, especially for people who are sensitive to unpredictability.”
And when it comes to allergies, Vlaev said whether they believe it or not, they can make you feel worse and even cause symptoms like depression.
So how do you help us overcome the sadness of spring?
“To fight spring and summer times, I recommend working in psychotherapy, sticking regularly, exercise regularly, limiting meth, limiting social comparisons, doing allergy checks and being kind to yourself,” Dr. Campbell said.
Vlaev added that it is important to maintain a consistent sleep schedule and to give blessings when it comes to your feelings as well.
“Practice self-compassion and accepting an emotional state reduces secondary distress (I feel bad because I feel bad),” he said.
Schedule confusion, changing sunset times, social obligations, and even seasonal allergies can all contribute to “spring grief” (stock image)
Both experts emphasized the importance of getting your body moving and getting the right exercise if you feel emotionally vulnerable due to seasonal changes.
Treatment also helps with problems that may not be solved by sleep or exercise.
“Psychotherapy helps you gain insight and understanding of problems, and helps you develop coping skills and strategies where you can reduce the impact of sunlight on your biological systems/circadian rhythms and ensure good sleep hygiene,” Dr. Campbell said.
And if everything else fails, Vlaev suggested filling your schedule with activities and people that will bring joy to you.
“Whether it’s a picnic, a movie night, a croissant in the sun, I look forward to something.
