Why Do I Feel Worse When the Weather Gets Better?

We’re told that sunshine is the ultimate cure for the "winter blues," so when the tulips start to pop and we still feel heavy, the guilt sets in. This is often called Springtime Lethargy or a seasonal shift in mood that catches us off guard.

Social Pressure: There is an unspoken "obligation to be happy" when the sun is out. Seeing others dining outdoors or jogging can make your internal struggle feel louder by comparison.
 
The Contrast Effect: When it’s gray outside, your internal grayness blends in. When the world turns bright and vibrant, your low mood feels more "visible" and isolated.
 
Biological Shifts: The sudden increase in light can disrupt your circadian rhythm, leading to jitteriness or "tired but wired" energy.
 
The Strategy: Give yourself permission to transition at your own pace. You don't have to "bloom" just because the calendar says it’s April. If you need to stay inside and rest, that isn't a failure—it’s listening to your body.
 
Often what seems like a simple issue might have a more complex origin. I would love to explore this more with you.
 
Contact me if you would like to see how we can work together.
 
Chris Warren-Dickins
Psychotherapist in Ridgewood, New Jersey, and the United Kingdom