By early February in Nova Scotia, something really wonderful happens: the light returns!
The sun lingers a little longer in the afternoon. Mornings brighten sooner. On paper, this should feel hopeful, and sometimes it does. But for many people, February brings a complicated emotional mix.
Relief. Fatigue. Restlessness. Grief. A quiet sense of, “Why don’t I feel better yet?”
If that resonates, you’re not alone.
When we talk about seasonal mental health, much of the focus is on the darkest months. What’s less discussed is the transition, the period when light begins to return but our nervous systems haven’t caught up yet.
After months of cold, shortened days, and inward living, your body and mind may still be operating in conservation mode. The return of light can stir things up rather than immediately soothe them.
You might notice:
As winter begins to wane, so we begin our internal thaw. What has been frozen inside of us, now feels tender and aching.
Winter naturally slows us down. We spend more time indoors, more time with our thoughts, more time alone, or too much time together with cabin fever! For some, this brings rest and connection. For others, it brings unresolved feelings into sharper focus.
This is often when people begin thinking about therapy, not because they’re at a breaking point, but because something inside them is asking for attention. These uncomfortable or restless feelings are your invitation into self-care.
You Don’t Have to Rush the Return of Light
Longer days don’t mean instant clarity or energy. They offer possibility and permission to gently begin again.Therapy during this time of year isn’t about fixing winter fatigue or forcing optimism. It’s about making sense of what’s surfaced, rethinking our self-compassion, and making some changes in our behaviours.
If you’re noticing emotional shifts as winter begins to soften, therapy can help you understand what’s emerging and what you need next.Online therapy makes this process more accessible:
You can explore our online individual and group therapy options, including upcoming group sessions, by visiting our Group Therapy page or selecting Get Started at becometherapy.ca. Or if you want, reach out to Erin or Roy by email at hello@becometherapy.ca
The thaw has begun. You don’t have to navigate this tender season alone. We’re ready when you are.