BALTIMORE, April 29, 2025 — As Maryland welcomes blooming flowers, warmer temperatures, and longer days, many residents anticipate a mood boost after winter’s gloom. However, for some, spring ushers in unexpected mental health challenges, defying the season’s promise of renewal. Experts note that heightened expectations and biological factors, such as seasonal allergies, can exacerbate depression and stress during this time.
Cynthia Cubbage, director of family and post-adopt service for the Barker Adoption Foundation, explained that unmet expectations often worsen mental health issues in spring. “When people are looking forward to spring because it’s a time of renewal, and those expectations don’t happen, and then nothing gets better for them because it’s deeper than that,” she said, “then they get really stressed and depression can really set in. And it’s because of the expectations.”
Contrary to common assumptions, suicide rates peak in spring, not winter, according to Johns Hopkins Medicine. Research highlights a link between seasonal allergies and mental health, with individuals experiencing rhinitis—nasal allergy symptoms being over 40% more likely to face depression. The physical toll of allergies, combined with psychological pressures, can create a perfect storm for mental health struggles.
To counter these challenges, Cubbage recommends practical steps. Spending time outdoors and socializing can help lift spirits. However, she emphasized the importance of maintaining consistent sleep schedules despite longer daylight hours. “Definitely prioritize sleep, even though we’re having more daylight,” she said. “It makes people want to stay up longer—that they should be doing things—and to remember that’s a big transition for your body. They should still prioritize their sleep. If they were still going to sleep at eight or they were putting their kids down at eight, that should continue.”
For those whose symptoms persist, Cubbage urged seeking professional help. “If you continue to feel depressed or down even after trying those suggestions, it’s best to seek out professional mental-health help,” she said. Early intervention can prevent worsening conditions and provide tailored support.
The connection between spring and mental health challenges is complex. While the season’s beauty uplifts many, the pressure to feel “renewed” can weigh heavily on those grappling with deeper issues. Allergies, a typical springtime complaint in Maryland, further complicate the picture. Pollen from blooming trees and grasses triggers rhinitis, which not only causes physical discomfort but also heightens the risk of depression, per Johns Hopkins findings.
Mental health experts stress that acknowledging these struggles is a critical first step. Social stigma often discourages individuals from seeking help, but resources are available across Maryland. Community organizations, such as the Barker Adoption Foundation, offer support services, while hospitals and clinics provide access to licensed therapists and counselors.
Spring’s arrival also prompts lifestyle changes that can either help or hinder mental well-being. Longer days encourage outdoor activities, which can improve mood through exposure to sunlight and fresh air. Yet, the temptation to overextend oneself—staying up later or packing schedules with social events—can disrupt sleep and increase stress. Cubbage’s advice to prioritize rest underscores the need for balance during this transitional season.
Maryland’s diverse communities, from urban Baltimore to rural towns on the Eastern Shore, face these challenges in various ways. Access to mental health resources remains a concern in underserved areas, where professional help may be harder to find. Still, simple strategies like maintaining routines and connecting with others can make a difference.
As spring progresses, experts encourage Marylanders to monitor their mental health, with the season’s promise of renewal doesn’t always translate to improved mental health. By understanding the factors—unmet expectations, allergies, and lifestyle changes—residents can take proactive steps to navigate these challenges and seek help when needed.
