Therapists weigh in on controversial ‘April theory’ that could have a big impact on your mental health

There’s a tangible shift in April as the air gets lighter and the days longer – but it’s not just spring fever.

The second the sun breaks through the clouds and flowers start to bloom, people suddenly feel inspired and ready to make major changes.

Increasingly more people start going for happy hours after work and brunch on Sundays as social lives start to blossom. 

This is better known as the ‘April theory.’ 

The theory argues that April, rather than January, is the month where growth and rebirth happen.

DailyMail.com spoke with two experts to understand the viral theory and learn if there is any correlation between the spring month and a heightened sense of motivation. 

Alyson Curtis, a mental health counselor and owner of Attuned Therapy, argues that people only associate January with a new year because it is the start of the calendar year.

‘But what if we’re actually meant to continue to rest and recharge in the cold, winter months?’ she questioned to FEMAIL.

‘If we are to really act in sync with nature, all signs point towards taking time to slow down, reflect, and rest in the colder months, which practically beg us to do so.’

Alyson said April reflects this newness better because ‘springtime symbolizes rebirth, blossoming, and growth. We’re much more likely to embrace new habits when our environment is conducive to them.’

Sarah Herstich, owner and trauma therapist at Reclaim Therapy, added to April’s symbolism, saying: ‘Spring has always been a time of birth, growth, and new beginnings. 

‘So it’s not surprising that people start to feel more clarity around what’s not working, relationships, jobs, patterns, and begin making shifts. 

‘In fact, some research and social trend data suggest that breakups, relocations, and career changes do increase in the spring. It’s a season that invites reorientation and action.

‘It’s like our internal rhythms are syncing up with nature. Things are blooming, and so are we. April gives people a chance to reset, not from willpower, but from readiness.’

Alyson also reflected on Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) which is a type of depression that follows a seasonal pattern.

‘[SAD] is real, with shorter, colder days having an impact on serotonin levels,’ she explained.

‘In a sense, we’re trying to work against our biochemistry simply because our calendar year begins on January 1. April Theory makes intuitive sense as a more advantageous and attuned time to set forth with new goals, or even a new era of life.’

Sarah seconded Alyson’s argument, arguing that it’s based on biology.

‘By April, we’re finally moving out of winter’s heaviness,’ she told DailyMail.com.

‘More sunlight means more serotonin and dopamine, which directly impact our mood, motivation, and energy. 

‘After months of low light, slower rhythms, and [for many] emotional hibernation, our systems are naturally starting to open back up. It’s not just a vibe, it’s biology.’

She added that by April, ‘The nervous system finally starts to thaw a little. There’s a softening. A natural readiness to emerge.’