Depressed In Spring

In certain circles it is often referred to as “Black Spring.” Various authors, including Henry Miller, have written about it.

Depression can be a difficult condition to manage, regardless of the season. However, with the arrival of spring, depression can take on a darker dimension. While for many people spring signifies a time of renewal and rejuvenation, for others it can be a season of heightened sadness and despair.

The reasons for feeling depressed in spring can be varied and sometimes difficult to pinpoint. One common factor is the change in weather. While the arrival of warmer temperatures and longer days can be a welcome change for many, for others it can lead to feelings of restlessness, agitation, and exhaustion. For people with clinical depression, the pressure to be happy and energetic during a time when everyone else seems to be experiencing a newfound sense of vitality can exacerbate these feelings, leading to a sense of isolation and loneliness.

Another factor is the increase in social expectations that come with the season. Spring is often associated with outdoor activities, socializing and attending events with family and friends. For those who are struggling with depression, the thought of engaging in these types of activities can be overwhelming and may exacerbate feelings of anxiety and guilt. They may find themselves missing the quarantine days when they didn’t have to show up to that party.

Spring can also bring up feelings of nostalgia and loss, particularly for those who have experienced trauma or grief. Seeing the world around them blossom, flourish and move on can be a harsh reminder of what has been lost, leading to feelings of helplessness and despair.

Managing depression in spring can be challenging, but it is important for individuals to seek support and create a self-care routine that works for them. This could mean engaging in light exercise, reading, stretching, setting realistic expectations for socializing and planning activities that have personal meaning and significance. Seeking professional help from a mental healthcare provider may also be beneficial, as they can help to support you and together you can come up with a treatment plan to help manage the depression.

While spring may bring joy to some, please remember that for others it can be a challenging time. Understanding the reasons why depression may worsen in the springtime is an important step in addressing depression and supporting those who may need extra support and empathy right now. With the right care and support, individuals can find ways to manage their depression and experience the beauty of spring without feeling so bad.

The Acceptance Of What Is

The acceptance of what is can be a difficult and challenging task for many of us. It can often feel counterintuitive to accept what is. It is human nature to resist change, to hold on to the past, and to try to control everything around us. However, the truth of the matter is that we cannot control everything, and we cannot change the past. When we accept what is, we are freeing ourselves from the constraints of trying to control the uncontrollable.

There are several ways in which the acceptance of what is can enhance our well-being. Firstly, accepting what is promotes inner calm and reduces anxiety. When we accept what is, we are no longer fighting against (or trying to escape) reality. We can let go of the constant need to control everything. This allows us to release the tension and stress that we’ve been holding onto and achieve a more peaceful state of mind.

Secondly, accepting what is can help us move forward and make positive changes. It is often when we are resisting reality that we become stuck, unwell and we cannot move forward. We keep trying to find happiness or well-being by striving for it rather than accepting what is and allowing the happiness or feelings of well-being to arise naturally. When we accept that something is (depression, anger, unhappiness, anxiety, illness, etc.) we can focus our energy and efforts on then gradually making positive changes in our lives. This enables us to find innovative solutions to our problems and take action towards achieving a better life for ourselves.

Moreover, accepting what is can also improve our relationships with others. When we resist reality, we tend to blame and criticize others for our problems, which can lead to arguments and misunderstandings. However, when we accept what is, we become more understanding and empathetic towards others, and we can work together to find solutions to our problems.

I have found that accepting what is is a crucial (and often counterintuitive) step towards achieving inner peace, moving forward, healing and building healthy relationships. It is not easy, but it is a skill that we can develop over time with practice and patience. By embracing what is, we can free ourselves from the constraints of control and resistance, open our minds and embark on a journey of self-discovery and growth.