St. Patrick’s Day Has Passed… March Is Almost Over, and April Is Almost Here April Showers, Spring Changes, and the Depression That Can Come With Them

The green shirts and shamrocks have been put away for another year. St. Patrick’s Day 2026 is behind us, and we’re in the final stretch of March. Warmer days are arriving in Mississippi, the first hints of spring are showing up, and April is just days away.

For many, this time of year brings a sense of renewal—longer daylight, blooming dogwoods and azaleas, and the promise of “April showers bring May flowers.” But for those of us in the Tourette, tics, and anxiety community, the shift into spring isn’t always light and easy.

Sometimes those April showers feel like they’re falling inside us too, bringing waves of anxiety, low mood, or heavier depression.

Spring Can Feel Heavy—Even When the Weather Is Beautiful

It might seem surprising, but research shows that anxiety and depression symptoms can actually peak for many people in April and May. While winter blues get more attention, “reverse seasonal affective disorder” or spring/summer mood dips are very real.

Why does this happen?

Rapid changes in daylight and temperature can throw off sleep, melatonin, and serotonin levels.

Rising pollen counts can worsen physical discomfort, which often amplifies tics, anxiety, or fatigue.

Recent studies on Tourette Syndrome have found that tics tend to be more severe in spring and summer compared to winter, possibly linked to warmer ambient temperatures.

There’s social pressure to feel “happy and energetic” as the world greens up—leaving those who feel the opposite even more isolated or frustrated.

If you’ve noticed your tics ramping up, anxiety feeling louder, or depression creeping in even as the days get brighter, you are not broken, and you are not alone. These seasonal shifts affect many people managing Tourette Syndrome, tic disorders, anxiety, or co-occurring depression.

Wearing Green for Mental Health Awareness

Even though St. Patrick’s Day is over, the color green still carries meaning. It’s the official color of mental health awareness. This late March and early April, let’s carry that reminder with us: it’s okay to talk about the parts of spring that feel difficult.

At the Tourette, Tics, and Anxiety Society of Mississippi (TTASMS), we know that symptoms don’t politely pause just because the calendar flips to spring. Tics can wax and wane with stress, temperature changes, and routine shifts. Anxiety can spike when expectations rise. Depression can settle in when everyone else seems to be celebrating renewal.

Your experience is valid—no matter what the weather forecast says.

Gentle Ways to Navigate the April Transition

As we step into April, here are a few realistic, compassionate strategies:

Keep your routines as steady as possible — Consistent sleep schedules, medication routines (if prescribed), and tic-management or coping tools help buffer against seasonal disruption.

Move your body gently — Short outdoor walks (when pollen allows) or indoor movement can support mood and energy without overdoing it.

Monitor your tics and triggers — Track if warmer weather or allergies seem to increase your symptoms. Noticing patterns can help you respond with kindness instead of frustration.

Limit the “should feel happy” pressure — Social media and conversations often highlight spring joy. Give yourself permission to feel whatever you’re feeling.

Reach out early — If anxiety, depression, or tics are intensifying, talk to a trusted person, therapist, or healthcare provider. Spring mood changes are treatable—don’t wait for them to “pass on their own.”

You Have a Community That Understands

The Tourette, Tics, and Anxiety Society of Mississippi exists for exactly these moments. Whether you’re living with Tourette Syndrome, supporting a family member with tics, or battling anxiety and depression that seems to follow the seasons, we see you.

Our resources, blog, and community are here to reduce stigma and remind you: you belong, and support is available.

If you’re in Mississippi or anywhere and need connection, visit us at www.ttasms.org. We offer education, advocacy, and a space where people truly get what it’s like to navigate these challenges year-round.

A Quiet Wish as April Arrives

March is almost over. April is coming—with its showers, its flowers, and its unpredictable emotional weather.

May this season bring you patience with yourself, moments of real rest, and the knowledge that brighter internal days are possible with the right support.

You don’t have to face the April showers alone.

We’re here with you—rain or shine.

☘️

With care and solidarity,

The TTASMS Team

Tourette, Tics, and Anxiety Society of Mississippi

www.ttasms.org | info@ttasms.org | 601-790-0858