Spring is here, and that means a glimpse into warmer weather and sunlight-filled days! Unfortunately, the spring season isn’t filled with happiness and renewal for everyone. For some, it means the opposite—seasonal depression, a high level of anxiety, and even lower energy levels. If you experience mental health issues during the late spring and early summer, it’s essential to prioritize your mental health.
Just like we clean our homes every spring, mental health spring cleaning is just as important. The beginning of spring is always a good time to let go of the mental “clutter” we’re holding on to. Here are some wellness tips for spring for a healthy, productive, and fulfilling spring season.
1. Get outside and get moving. There’s no debating the health benefits of physical fitness and being outdoors. So why not combine the two? By exercising outdoors, you are getting numerous benefits in return. For example, you’ll get a harder workout as your body encounters a constantly changing environment, you’re exposed to cleaner air, you’ll get your daily dose of vitamin D, and you’ll also be exercising your mind as you have to be aware of the constantly changing terrain.
2. Take a social media detox. The overuse of social media can be harmful to anyone, from young children to older adults. Not only in terms of what you see and what affects you, but how easy it is to be hurtful to other people, compare yourself to others, and strive for perfection. Knowing when to put your phone away, turning on “do not disturb” mode, or closing out of Instagram can make a huge difference in your mental wellness. It can help boost your mood, increase your energy levels, and help you feel more emotionally balanced.
3, Reset your sleep schedule. Did daylight saving time throw off your sleep pattern? This is very common, especially in adolescents, but it’s imperative to get it back on track. Sleep is essential for our bodies to recuperate from the demands of daily life as it helps to regulate hormones, control our appetite, and maintain a healthy immune system. Try to get rid of the gadgets right before bad, as they trick your brain into thinking it’s time to wake up. Also, shy away from exercising or eating large meals within two hours before bedtime, avoid alcohol for at least four hours before bed, and try to rid your afternoon of any caffeine.
4. Remember that it’s okay to say no. Navigating seasonal changes can feel incredibly exhausting. For many people, springtime brings added pressure to socialize and spend time outside. At the same time, the change in seasons can contribute to poor health, exacerbate seasonal allergies, and drive up our stress levels. Sometimes, these mental health challenges can manifest as a mild case of springtime blues, or as a form of seasonal affective disorder (SAD). If you’re feeling overwhelmed by the new set of expectations that come with spring, remember that it’s okay to say no.
5. Don’t hesitate to reach out for mental health care. Sometimes, springtime can feel overwhelming. Even if you’re not living with a diagnosable mental health condition, it’s important to reach out for help if you need it. Suicidal thoughts, spring anxiety, insomnia, and irritability are all common during the spring as our bodies adjust to more daylight, changes in our circadian rhythms, and fluctuations in our daily routines.
If you or someone you know may be experiencing SAD or any other mental health disorder, click here to view a list of resources in Monroe County.
Like what you’re reading?
Recent Comments