Centre for Optimism

Spring Optimism: Lowri Dowthwaite-Walsh

Written by Victor Perton | Mar 25, 2023 8:48:18 PM

Spring is the most uplifting season, as it follows on from winter, when many people experience symptoms of seasonal affective disorder.  More sunlight increases serotonin release in the brain, which is associated with more positive emotions, and can help to reduce feelings of depression.  The change in weather also brings life to green spaces. The sight of green grass, newborn chicks and blooming flowers can instill a sense of hope and optimism as we come out of winter.

So said Lowri Dowthwaite-Walsh, senior lecturer in psychological interventions at UCLan, quoted by Emily Cope in an article "50 things to look forward to this spring, from an extra bank holiday to Eurovision 2023"