So long winter blues!
Not so fast!
Spring is actually linked to higher rates of depression and suicide.
Suicide is the leading cause of death in the United States. Consider this:
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) WISQARS Leading Causes of Death Reports, in 2016:
-Suicide was the tenth leading cause of death overall in the United States, claiming the lives of nearly 45,000 people.
-Suicide was the second leading cause of death among individuals between the ages of 10 and 34, and the fourth leading cause of death among individuals between the ages of 35 and 54.
-There were more than twice as many suicides (44,965) in the United States as there were homicides (19,362).
Symptoms of suicide are linked to mood disorders, which may spike manic behaviors and activities. Sunlight should equate happiness right?
WRONG! Additional sunlight contributes to depression. Why? Read more about the link to suicide and sunlight here
I speculate that social influences are part of the culprit, which is NOT linked to science. Your friends are traveling and going on vacations - which may contribute to jealousy or reminders that others are having fun and you aren't. It could be due to financial limitations or work schedule. Social media such as Facebook, Instagram, and Snapchat are all arenas for friends and family members to post pictures and videos of great times, while others are home and can't join in. Individuals who fall under this category may have a predisposition to depression, and should seek professional guidance.
Considering the rates of suicide on the rise, we all should consider a Mental Health Check.
Mental Health Spring Cleaning is a MUST!
Consider the following:
Eliminate unhealthy relationships.
Eliminate Drama.
Eliminate Bad habits.
Eliminate Negative thoughts.
Eliminate Negative self-talk.
DECLUTTER.
Maintain your mental health through:
Balance.
Physical health.
General wellness.
Healthy eating.
Positive relationships.
New creative adventures.
Practicing mindfulness.
Adopting coping skills. Regular mental health checkups.
If you are thinking about suicide, or you are worried about a friend or family member who might be, get help. The National Suicide Prevention Lifeline is 1-800-273-8255.