The sun is shining, the flowers are blooming, and while others are out bounding in the warmer weather, you’re feeling sleepier than ever. What’s up with that? Spring fatigue, also known as spring lethargy, is a very real disorder that can leave those affected feeling excessively tired, lazy, and even depressed. It sounds counter-intuitive, but the changing of the season can take a toll on our body’s rhythm.
What’s Spring Lethargy?
This state of tiredness is often described as a reverse seasonal affective disorder. Typically, we think of tiredness and depression being linked to short, cold winter days, but springtime can create these symptoms too. The theory is that as the days get longer, our bodies automatically readjust their hormone levels. In the winter, we’re busy producing more of the sleep hormone melatonin. But when spring comes along, our bodies react to the increased levels of light and release more serotonin, the activity hormone. The change can be a heavy burden on the body, causing us to feel more tired for a few weeks as we adjust.
Typically, it affects sufferers for about 2-3 weeks, between March and April, as we get used to the new world clock and the longer days.
Symptoms to Look Out For
Springtime lethargy symptoms are different for everyone. Most often, sufferers feel:
- Tired
- Irritable
- Dizzy
- Increased headaches
- Heightened sensitivity to weather changes
- Feeling down or depressed
Remedies
If spring fatigue has taken hold of you, there are some easy solutions you can put in place.
- Spend more time outdoors to release more serotonin
- Exercise to keep your body active
- Eat healthier options like fruits, vegetables, and anything with vitamins and minerals
- Stay hydrated
Ultimately, the symptoms should dissipate by mid-April. Your body will be accustomed to its new rhythm, and you’ll be back in the full swing of things. But if you are feeling these spring lethargy effects, know that it’s normal and will pass on its own in just a few weeks.
