Why You Should Be Cautious of Your Mental Health (Even in the Spring)

With Daylight Savings and spring officially here, the weather is warming up. It may seem like a hopeful moment for people struggling with seasonal depression. Autumn and winter have a known history of being connected to seasonal depression; while that holds true, spring can have the same effects on someone’s mental health. I know, you’re thinking “How can someone be depressed in the spring? Wake up and smell the roses!” However, did you ever think about how those roses might trigger someone?

Let’s start with the obvious: health and death. Both of these topics can be triggering for anyone because health and death don’t stop for anyone for any season. The anniversary of finding out the diagnosis of someone’s health, even your own, can stick with you, even if you’ve survived and overcome a disease. It is especially true if it’s a health condition often stigmatized by society. As far as death, well, that’s pretty self-explanatory. No matter what season it is, no one wants to think about death. Whether it’s the anniversary of someone’s death or the birthday of the deceased happens to be in the spring (or summer). It can be difficult to navigate a season of warmth with a loved one on your mind who has since transitioned. While thinking of the positives, nothing can compare to that feeling of them actually being present.

Health, death, or any traumatic event can set off emotions during the spring. However, sometimes triggers don’t have to be health or physical-related. Spring is a season of joyous events such as proms, graduations, weddings, and transitioning to college. However, these events can also trigger negative emotions in some individuals who may feel left out or discouraged. It's important to remember that not everyone has positive experiences with these events and it's okay to acknowledge and support those who may be struggling during this time. Mourning doesn’t always have to deal with death. Something I learned from a friend, who is a social worker, is that we as humans can mourn experiences we never lived or experiences that could have been better. Due to capitalism and poverty, it may be hard to find love, go to the school you want to go to, attend a special event, or just live life in general.

With this being said, I think we must take the time to recognize that mentally, spring (and summer) can be hard for others. It is important to live our lives while being mindful of others' mental health and struggles. Yes, we need to get out and get some fresh air and sun, however, that may not be enough for people suffering from depression and mental health issues. Spring may bring a change of season and weather, but old wounds may still be there if left unhealed and unattended. Be gentle with yourself and others as we navigate moments that can be triggering.