When Spring Is Not In Bloom

⏰ Read time : 4 mins

Trigger Warning: This blog contains discussions about suicide and self-harm, which may be distressing for some readers. If you or someone you know is struggling, please seek help. Here are a few helplines for immediate support and assistance. You are not alone.
Global Suicide Prevention Hotlines can be found at https://findahelpline.com/

Helplines for India

Sneha: +91 44 2464 0050
Tele-Manas: 1800-891-4416 or 14416

Did you know that most suicides happen in spring?

For a beautiful season, it sure has failed to make people hold onto life, and there are several reasons. While experts have not been able to pinpoint the exact cause and agree on one theory, speculations, theories, and reasons run amok. 

Adam Kaplin, a psychiatrist at Johns Hopkins, works closely on depression and suicide. He opines that inflammation and allergic reactions aggravate depressive symptoms and may lead to an increased number of suicides during spring. But is that it? Or are there other reasons? 

Let’s look into various reasons experts have come up with.

Why Does Suicide Accompany Spring?

As elevated suicide rates are closely linked with the spring season (in the northern hemisphere), here are some reasons research studies have come up with:

Seasonal Exacerbation of Mood Disorders

Research suggests that the onset of spring may exacerbate existing mood disorders, leading to increased suicidal ideation and behaviour. Experts highlight that individuals with a history of hospitalisation for mood disorders experience a more pronounced spring peak in suicides compared to those without such a history. This implies that seasonal changes may trigger decompensation in mood disorders, resulting in heightened vulnerability.

Professional help and resources must be sought (some are given below). If you are undergoing treatment for mood disorders, do let your psychiatrist or psychologist know about the mood changes.

Environmental Factors

Changes in environmental conditions during spring, such as increased sunlight and temperature, may influence neurotransmitter systems related to mood regulation. The bioclimatic design theory also posits that variations in light exposure can affect serotonin levels, which are critical in mood stabilisation. Seasonal fluctuations in neurotransmitters like dopamine and norepinephrine have also been observed, potentially contributing to mood disturbances during this time.

Additionally, seasonal changes can bring other catastrophes. With climate change, unpredictable weather and rains have become common in India. Generally, February and March are the harvest periods, and any unpredictable rain can destroy the yield, affecting farmers’ livelihoods. Unfortunately, this poses a risk to farmers, and a jump in suicide rates is observed every year. A report also suggests that crop-damaging temperature increases suicide rates in India, reflecting a need for better policies to compensate farmers and protect the climate to support the mental health of citizens. 
If someone you know ever faces such a crisis, reach out to the helplines given below or consider our Crisis Management Course for emergencies.

Psychosocial Stressors

Spring can bring about significant psychosocial changes, such as shifts in employment or relationship dynamics, which may act as stressors for individuals already predisposed to mental health issues. The transition from winter to spring might also evoke pressure to be more socially active or productive, exacerbating feelings of inadequacy or depression among vulnerable populations. 

Furthermore, spring starts around March in India, crucial for students appearing for boards and entrances. They are preparing themselves for college or jobs. The stress level is high, and the pressure to do well is immense (you can read more about it in our blog). This poses a risk, as failure can cause students to feel vulnerable and overwhelmed. 

Biological Responses to Allergens

The onset of spring is associated with increased pollen levels, which can trigger allergic reactions and subsequent physiological stress responses. Some studies suggest that these allergic responses may lead to increased cytokine production, which has been linked to mood disturbances and anxiety, further contributing to the risk of suicide.

Ending Notes 

Spring may change one’s mood and turn it more gloomy. But what we should remember is that spring is not synonymous with suicide, and without any concrete evidence, it’s difficult to pinpoint the exact cause. What’s intriguing is that it’s a different scene in the southern hemisphere, with suicide rates rising during November. 

However, it’s a topic worth studying, and it may even help mental health professionals develop effective intervention programs. 

---

Helplines in India 

iCall: 022-25521111 
Vandrevala Foundation: 9999 666 555
Sneha: +91 44 2464 0050
Tele-Manas: 1800-891-4416 or 14416

For emergencies, you can also connect with local large government medical college hospitals or Google for “psychiatrists near me.”