by Layna Transue

Spring is officially here! With it comes longer days, warmer temperatures, and blooming flowers. But the turning of the season is not all sunshine and rainbows. Spring means the ushering in of allergies and tax season. The pros can outweigh the cons to some, but to others, Spring is not the amazing and refreshing season many label it as. 

The arrival of Spring marks the start of allergies for many people. During Spring, allergies are most often a result of male trees, flowers, and other vegetation releasing grains in the air for fertilization. The body, when it comes into contact with these grains (commonly known as pollen), assumes it is an attack on the immune system. Antibodies are released that attack the pollen causing histamines to be released into the bloodstream. Histamines cause irritated eyes and a runny nose. Unfortunately, pollen can travel for miles through the air, so even if your community is free of allergens, neighboring areas are also a concern. Although rain can wash away pollen, increased precipitation leads to more mold in your house which can also cause allergies. Spring cleaning, a staple in many households, stirs up dust and other debris as you freshen your house. 

Allergies are not the only downside to the Spring season. Tax season is a downer for most and confusing for teenagers or young adults who are just starting to pay taxes. While taxes can officially be filed starting on January 1st, the first two months or so are for employers, businesses, banks, and more to prepare. W-2 forms are usually sent to employees by the end of January. In 2023, tax season was even more dreaded than usual as taxpayers were receiving abnormally high balances and dwindling tax returns. This year can bring similar news. It is important to accurately calculate your taxes to ensure you do not owe any money to the IRS. 

Some phenomena occur as a result of the changing season. Migraines and headaches increase during Spring. The rainy weather affects the barometric pressure which can cause cluster headaches and migraines. Thunderstorms, frequent in this season, can cause an uptick in asthma attacks by humans and animals alike. Thunderstorms break up pollen particles into tiny pieces. Once the rain slows and these particles descend back to the ground, their size allows them to enter throats and lungs easily. Melatonin, a hormone most often associated with sleeping, decreases during Spring and Summer. The decrease of this hormone has been linked to flare-ups in chronic diseases like multiple sclerosis. 

Spring does not have to be all negative though. There are numerous benefits to your physical and mental well-being in Spring.  The average temperature increases, allowing more opportunities to head outside and have fun. Also, the days are longer due to Daylight Savings Time, so more hours are available to go outside after work or school. Spending time outside is a proven way to increase your mood and mental health! You can get outside by gardening, participating in a sport, having a picnic, and even just sitting outside. Fresh air and warm temperatures increase energy and the desire to move. Exercise is a great way to help manage depression and anxiety. Spring offers a “relief” for those who suffer from Seasonal Depressive Disorder during the winter months (which includes the majority of people who have S.A.D.) Human beings, like most organisms, react very positively to light. Thus, the ability to spend more time in the sun and shed a few layers is extremely beneficial. 

The turn of the season is also the ramp-up to holidays and breaks. Easter, Ramadan, Passover, Holi, and many other religious holidays occur during the Spring months. These holidays are deeply personal and important for many. Earth Day, Mother’s Day, and Father’s Day all also occur between March 19th and June 20th. Spring break is also an important holiday for students, as the rest from school is desirable to all. For many college students, spring break usually occurs between March and early April for about two weeks. Breaks from school can be rejuvenating and allow students to have a breath of fresh air during a part of the school year that tends to feel longer than others. 

Just like there are negative phenomena, Spring can bring strange positive occurrences. Your memory can improve in the Springtime. A study in 2005 by Psychological Science revealed a correlation between people who spent time outside in warm weather and more accurately recalling a string of numbers. Your sense of smell improves due to the increased moisture in the air. Meanwhile, children grow fastest during the spring. 

The changing of seasons is a supremely natural process on Earth. While some may not enjoy the stuffy noses or filing their taxes, it is important to look to the bright side of life. Enjoy the warm weather in whatever way you can. Just remember, Summer is right around the corner!