Coming Out of Hibernation: Easing Social Anxiety as Spring Arrives

After months of cold, dark days and quiet nights, spring invites us to step back into the world. The longer days and warmer air encourage social plans, outdoor activities, and reconnection. While this transition feels refreshing for some, for those who experience social anxiety, it can also feel overwhelming. Winter naturally brings a slowdown—fewer social commitments, shorter days, and more time spent indoors. While this can be a welcome break, it can also reinforce patterns of avoidance. The longer we stay in, the harder it becomes to step back out. If social situations already feel stressful, months of isolation can make them seem even more daunting.

In my ten years of experience as a therapist in downtown Hamilton, I’ve seen clients who struggle with this seasonal shift, feeling torn between the desire to reconnect and the urge to retreat. The good news? Social engagement, like any skill, can be tuned up with time and practice.