The constant gloom of the past few months has made students undoubtedly feel dejected. However, at the sight of spring, Dublin High students have come in contact with the bright sun and chirping birds. These increased sightings of longer days signify school coming to an end and the mental well-being of students improving. Priyani Khandelwal, a sophomore at Dublin High School says, “The sunny days make me feel so much better and happier. Whenever there were gray skies, the days felt so monotone and depressing.”

Priyani Khandelwal is not alone as many students have felt the introduction of sunny days to be more beneficial to their mental health. But why is this the case? 

According to The Guardian, “As well as the cheering colour of the sky, bright spring light can make us happier,” which is due to an increase in Vitamin D, directly impacting and increasing serotonin levels in the body. This idea of happiness and an increase in serotonin levels directly correlates to why it is common for students to feel an increase in energy and motivation. 

Similarly, when there are darker skies and shorter days, students tend to feel a lack of motivation because of the disruption to their natural circadian rhythm. As defined by the National Cancer Institute, A circadian rhythm is the “natural cycle of physical, mental, and behavior changes that the body goes through in a 24-hour cycle” and can impact the physical and mental well-being of an individual. Light and dark play a major role in circadian rhythms as they can affect many bodily functions. If the natural circadian rhythm of a person were to be disrupted or changed, then the person’s health could be at risk. 

Nonetheless, take advantage of the natural dopamine hit. Although students tend to feel more negative during darker days, the current weather is notably favorable for your health. Take a walk, open your windows, and go out as often as you can!