Improving Your Mental Health in the Spring

Winter can be a difficult season for people with mental health problems. Depression and 
anxiety are often worse during winter months because you are stuck inside in bad 
weather and unable to do things that would help you feel better. Now that spring is 
approaching, you can use the improving weather to take steps that will help improve 
your mental health. Here are some ways you can improve your mental health this 
spring.  
 

Spend More Time Outside 
 
Sunshine (vitamin D) is a good way to help improve your mood and overall mental 
health. As the year moves into spring weather, the days will be longer and warmer. You 
can improve your mental health by taking advantage of the improving weather. Even 
spending fifteen minutes outside in the sun every day can help your mental health. 
Getting time in the sun is the easiest and most effective way to get vitamin D into your 
body. In addition, spending time outside of the house will help you get out of a mental 
and emotional rut, which can also improve your overall mood.  
 

Take Stock of Your Internal Environment 
 
Lots of people use spring to clean their homes and get rid of the clutter that 
accumulated during the winter. Sometimes a cluttered environment can contribute to a 
depressed or anxious mental state. By doing spring cleaning in your home and getting 
rid of clutter, you give yourself a fresh start for the way you think and live in your 
environment. In addition, the physical act of cleaning your home gets your body moving, 
which is also good for your mental health.  
 
Get Involved in Journaling

An excellent way to improve your mental health in the springtime is to start journaling. 
Maybe you thought about it in the beginning of the year, but haven’t yet used it as a 
daily practice. Now is a great time to start!

Get Some Exercise 
 
Spring is a good time to be more active because the weather is improving. Going for a 
short walk every day or even a few times a week not only gets you out in the sunshine 
but helps get your endorphins pumping, which can improve your mood. In addition, 
regular exercise helps improve your physical health, which improves your mental 
health.  
 
Whether you've been struggling through winter with depression or you are just looking 
for new ways to improve your overall mental health, spring is a good season for feeling 
better. Taking small steps such as spending time outside, spring cleaning your home, 
and exercising can have a big impact on your mood. Committing to these actions this 
spring will help improve your mental health so you can enjoy the beautiful spring 
weather.
