Normalize the springtime sads.

Spring has a reputation for being cheerful, hopeful, and life renewing. Lots of times it is! But it’s also not exactly the whole picture. Spring for many, is not just sad, it’s unbearable. It may seem counterintuitive but death by suicide rates in the United States are at their highest in spring: April, May and June. Suicide rates can be up to three times higher this time of year than when they’re at their lowest … in December. Warmer weather can feel like a lot of pressure: to hang out, to go outside, to be cheerful and enthusiastic. Not wanting to do any of those things and not feeling any of those ways, may exacerbate feelings of despair, hopelessness, and isolation. Change, any change at all, can put stress on our system. Heck, going on vacation can be a stressful event. So we are not surprised that some of us are feeling sad, stressed, and just wanna stay home. The Springtime Sads are not a personal failure. Sad is on a spectrum: it shows up for lots of different reasons and in lots of different seasons.

When you’re an herbalist every month is mental health awareness month.

We know that people can feel crummy any time of year even in times of cheer, hope, and renewal. Sometimes especially during these times. So here are some of our favorite tips and tricks to make the season just a touch more sunny. Pick and choose what sounds comfortable for you to try on. As always, consult with your healthcare professional before pursuing any new course of therapy.

Soften the expectations the season puts on you.

Soften the expectations the season puts on you. It’s a big ask to swap down jackets for floral frocks. For those of us in the south, it can be a big deal to change from long sleeves to tank tops. Transitions are tough, no matter what. If you need time to adjust, take it. Herbs come in handy here. They have navigated seasonal transitions for millions of years. And they can help to gently and gradually bring your body and mind into alignment with a time of year that is more social, more outdoors, and more vulnerable. We love Rose-Colored Glasses for reinforcing boundaries, attuning to seasonal shifts, and gently elevating our mood. Let plants make the work of spring feel lighter.

If the idea of socializing out of your apartment fills you with dread, then invite people - or just one person - over.

Host an an indoor picnic. Throw open the windows, brew herbal tea, and eat cake from the comfort of your home. Or have a tincture tasting party! Get all your favorite tinctures and friends together - have your pals bring their faves - and share the abundance. Sure you could go outside to be with plants, but they’re just as happy to join you where you’re comfortable.

Nourish your nervous and immune systems, especially when the pollen is pumping.

We made a formula for that. Imbalances like irritated sinuses, watery eyes, and an itchy nose put stress on other systems in your body. This can show up as fatigue, irritability, and even a dip in mood. Include lots of bitter greens, colorful fruits and vegetables, and warming broths in your spring meals. Strengthening and supporting multiple systems in your body, can actually help you feel less sad, bummed, and crummy.

Remember there's no rush to run outside.

There are lots of feelings this time of year. Whether you’re having one of them or all of them - at whatever frequency or intensity - and feel overwhelmed, you’re not alone. The world’s waiting for you, however you’re feeling, when you’re ready.

If you are in crisis, call the toll-free National Suicide Prevention Lifeline (NSPL) at 1-800-273-TALK (8255), available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. The service is available to anyone. All calls are confidential.