Spring fatigue and mood shifts: understanding seasonal stress
As the season shifts, many people notice fatigue and vitamin gaps from winter accumulate and amplify stress. Old health concerns resurface, energy dips deepen, and mood can feel heavier. Spring burnout often shows up as the pull between longer days and a desire to slow down, rest, or take a short break. Dr. Stanislav Sambursky, an Ecological Psychologist and clinical psychologist at the Anikina Clinic, discussed these patterns with socialbites.ca.
The root cause lies in hormonal changes. Dopamine and serotonin production trend higher, but the practical effects vary. Mood can swing, appetite may become unpredictable, and energy can surge one day then crash the next. Concentration may waver, sleep can be disrupted, and emotional responses might escalate. Metabolism often speeds up, according to Sambursky.
Not everyone experiences spring instability. Some feel energized and excited about upcoming events, while others feel drained or puzzled by a persistent lack of energy. When symptoms appear, listening to the body and observing emotional states can help, though not everyone does this consistently.
These mood and physical changes are a natural reaction to shifting seasons. They should not be ignored; they can serve as cues to slow down, slow life’s pace, and spend time with loved ones to ease stress, Sambursky advised.
Spring upheaval is especially noticeable for people who have chronic mental health conditions, which can worsen as daylight increases. Many individuals with psychiatric diagnoses live among the general population and may not pose a danger, yet they often experience spring flare-ups more intensely.
Emotional outbursts are common for weather‑sensitive individuals, and unstable spring weather can amplify the impact. The effects of spring burnout depend on overall stress levels. It can drain energy, reduce resilience, and blunt responses to change. For those with two or more weeks of ongoing psychological distress, headaches, mood swings, irritability, and tearfulness may occur more readily.
The workplace environment can shift during this time. A team that once stayed calm may see more conflicts, raised voices, and less willingness to collaborate, which can be especially challenging for someone dealing with spring exacerbation.
Managing spring flare-ups centers on healthy living. Strong nutrition, time outdoors, regular physical activity, and sufficient sleep are key foundations. When stress peaks, effective relaxation methods become essential, including yoga, breathing exercises, and massage. For serious or persistent symptoms, seeking professional help is wise. When stress remains high or leads to physical symptoms such as headaches or persistent mood changes, leaning on loved ones and experts for support becomes important.
The content reflects observations from medical and psychological perspectives, emphasizing practical strategies to cope with seasonal stress and maintain well-being across Canada and the United States.