Socializing is Important for Mental Health

Thank you to F.F. for submitting this question – “Why is socializing important to mental health?”

Socializing with Depression and Chronic Pain – Plus, 50+ ideas for gentle socializing!

As a pre-teen and early teen, I lived in a community that, while not as remote as more Northern areas in Ontario, felt isolated in its own way. Being home-schooled and grappling with undiagnosed mental health issues, combined with my parents working 45 minutes away five or six days a week, made the sense of isolation quite pronounced. With approximately 25 year-round residents and neither of the two neighbourhood boys interested in spending time with me, loneliness became a significant challenge. Agoraphobia, depression, and anxiety soon became additional challenges.

It’s well-known that such isolation can severely affect mental health, especially on a developing brain, and I’m honestly surprised I didn’t succumb to what people often refer to as “Cabin Fever” during those eight long years. Despite dreading the constant solitude, and disconnection from my previous life, I managed to cope by staying busy and forging alternative connections through pen pals and mail-based art exchanges. These efforts provided me with a vital sense of connection and creativity during a challenging time.

Staying connected with others helps reduce feelings of isolation and can lower anxiety and depression. However, engaging socially can be especially challenging when dealing with mental health issues like depression or chronic pain. For introverts like myself, these challenges can be even more pronounced. Social interactions can be draining rather than energizing. My personal social battery lasts about four hours and if happens to extend beyond that it can take days to recover. If this resonates with you, you're certainly not alone. Even the simple anticipation of this drain might even discourage us from reaching out, adding another layer to the struggle.

Understanding these challenges and finding ways to build connections can play a critical role in supporting our mental well-being. After all, human beings are inherently social creatures. Even the most independent among us benefit from feeling connected to others in doses.

But, why is social connection so important to our mental health?

It Reduces Stress!
Spending time in the company of people we trust and feel safe around has a profound effect on stress reduction. When we’re in the presence of people who genuinely care about us, our bodies respond by lowering cortisol levels—the hormone associated with stress. This calming effect helps us to better manage life’s challenges, whether they are related to work, relationships, or personal struggles. Engaging in conversations, laughter, or even just being in the company of others allows us to process emotions, gain perspective, and feel supported. I know that during the most challenging days where I find it hard to put my most ambiguous emotions into words, having someone just sit with me in silence can help me feel better. By sharing our worries, we often find that others can offer insight, reassurance, or simply a comforting presence, all of which reduce stress over time.

It Promotes a Sense of Belonging!
A fundamental human need is to feel connected to others, to belong. When we become part of a community—whether it’s a small circle of friends, a larger social network, or a group with shared interests—we experience a sense of purpose and inclusion. This sense of belonging counteracts feelings of loneliness and alienation, which are major contributors to poor mental health. Being part of a group, no matter how small, helps us feel that we are valued and that our presence matters. Social belonging provides us with a sense of identity and fosters a collective sense of responsibility, both of which enhance our overall well-being.

It Improves Mood!
Positive social interactions initiate the release of chemicals in the brain, such as oxytocin and endorphins, often referred to as "feel-good" hormones. Oxytocin helps build bonds and promotes feelings of trust and connection, while endorphins act as natural mood boosters that reduce pain and create a sense of euphoria. These neurochemical changes can dramatically improve mood and counteract symptoms of depression or anxiety. Socializing with people who lift us up, whether through meaningful conversation, shared activities, or simply enjoying each other’s company, has an immediate and lasting impact on our emotional well-being.

It Provides Emotional Support!
Emotional support is one of the most important benefits of socializing, especially during difficult times. When we share our thoughts, feelings, and struggles with others, we’re not just venting—we’re opening ourselves up to receiving understanding, empathy, and fresh perspectives. This can help us see our challenges in a new light, making them feel more manageable. Knowing that someone else cares about what we’re going through can reduce feelings of isolation and despair. Whether it’s through a heart-to-heart with a close friend, a support group, or casual conversations with acquaintances, the simple act of sharing burdens can make a significant difference in how we cope with life’s challenges. However, despite the importance of social interaction, engaging with others isn’t always easy—especially when we’re going through tough times.

Socializing When You're Depressed or in Chronic Pain is Hard, But Doable!
Depression and chronic pain often go together, and both can make socializing feel like an impossible task, especially on days when it’s hard to even get out of bed or shower. Depression can drain motivation and create a sense of hopelessness, while chronic pain may leave us physically incapable of meeting others or participating in activities. Even small acts of socializing, like replying to a text or leaving the house, can feel like monumental efforts.

In these moments, isolation can seem like the only option. However, this often makes things worse. The more we withdraw, the lonelier we feel, and the harder it becomes to re-engage. The key is to acknowledge these challenges and take small, manageable steps toward connection—even if it’s just starting with a brief text or phone call.

For the past two decades, I've relied on a simple mantra that has guided me through everything—from attending work events to just making it to the mailbox: "Go with the plan, not with the mood." I often share this with anyone who’ll listen because it’s been such a powerful tool in keeping me engaged, even on the hardest days. There are times when I do my best to convince myself to avoid socializing, but often, I end up feeling better and happier afterwards—if I respect my limits and don’t exhaust my social battery.

When the idea of socializing sounds exhausting during those times we feel physically and emotionally depleted, we can still benefit from connection. The trick is to find social settings that match our energy levels and preferences. When we are experiencing depression and chronic pain small, intimate gatherings, quiet activities like book clubs, coffee dates with a friend, or structured social settings with clear expectations can be more comfortable, allowing us to feel connected without being overstimulated.

For those living in the Guelph and Kitchener/Waterloo areas, there are several ways to make meaningful connections, even if socializing feels daunting at first.

50+ Ideas for Gentle Socializing in the Waterloo-Wellington Area

1. Join a Local Book Club
   Many local libraries or bookstores host book clubs where you can meet others who share a love for reading.

   • Region of Waterloo Library Book Clubs – They offer a variety of Book Club Kits that include 12 copies of a book, a discussion guide, and a thematic description. You can borrow these kits for 8 weeks, making it ideal for groups wanting to start a club or join an ongoing one.

   • Eden Mills Writers' Festival Online Book Club – This club connects readers and authors through virtual events, often focusing on Canadian writers. It’s a great option for those looking to engage in literary discussions from the comfort of home.

   • Silent Book Club in Waterloo – A unique club where participants gather to read silently together with no assigned readings or pressure, promoting relaxation and the joy of reading in a quiet, communal space​.

2. Attend a Yoga or Meditation Class
   Gentle yoga and meditation classes are available at community centres, focusing on mental well-being and physical relaxation.

   • Yoga Meditation Canada offers free meditation classes in Kitchener-Waterloo-Cambridge. They also conduct workshops at workplaces, schools, and community centres, making it accessible for diverse groups​.

   • Art of Living Kitchener/Waterloo offers yoga and meditation programs focused on mental well-being. Their classes emphasize techniques for stress management and personal development, available both online and in-person.

   • RiverSound Yoga & Meditation Retreat (Fergus) – Located near Fergus, this retreat offers yoga and meditation in a serene environment by the Grand River. It’s ideal for those looking for a deeper connection with nature during their practice​.

   • Arrive Yoga & Mindfulness (Guelph) – This studio provides a variety of both in-person and online yoga and meditation classes. It focuses on creating a supportive community with a range of classes suited for all experience levels​.

3. Volunteer at Local Charities
   Organizations like the Guelph Humane Society or The Working Centre offer volunteer opportunities, which can help you connect with others while giving back. If you want more options, you can check out the Guelph Volunteer Centre or Volunteer Waterloo Region.
   

4. Take a Painting or Art Class
   Join an art class at the Guelph School of Art or Kitchener-Waterloo Art Gallery to meet others in a creative setting. Alternatively, you can join us at Spark of Brilliance, or Contact Me for information on art-based peer support!

5. Participate in Walking Groups

   • Waterloo Walkers organize regular, gentle walks, offering a way to socialize while staying active.

   • Mall Walker Program has fitness conscious individuals walk mapped distances in hopes of (figuratively) walking across the country.

   • Waterloo-Wellington Exercise and Falls Prevention Programs: These programs offer group walks as part of their fitness classes aimed at keeping seniors and adults active. Various locations across the region are available, and programs are free of charge for eligible participants.

   • Guelph Hiking Trail Club: This club organizes various hiking and walking events, including short walks and longer hikes around Guelph and the surrounding area.

   • Waterloo Walking Tours and Trails: The Region of Waterloo offers various walking and hiking trails, with information available on local routes and guided group walks. For more structured group walks, check local health and community centres that coordinate walks.

   • Up and Running: Their mission is to improve the mental health and well-being of our community through supportive and inclusive nature-based walking and running programs.

6. Join a Crafting Group

   • Guelph Wellington Seniors Association Craft Group (GWSA): This group meets on Fridays from 8:30 am to 1:30 pm at the Evergreen Seniors Community Centre in Guelph. Members enjoy knitting, sewing, embroidery, and crocheting while socializing over coffee and tea. Their crafts are sold to raise funds for senior programs.

   • Guelph Public Library Craft Circles: Various branches of the Guelph Public Library host craft sessions for different age groups. You can check out their schedule online for crafting events tailoredto different skill levels.

   • The KW Weavers and Spinners Guild: This guild is based in Kitchener-Waterloo and offers a wide range of workshops and meetings for those interested in weaving, spinning, and other fibre arts.

7. Check Out a DIY Craft Night
   Libraries often host craft nights, where you can create DIY projects with others, often for free or a small fee.

8. Participate in a Writing Group

   • Indigenous Poets Society: IPS encourages Indigenous artists’ voices & keeps our oral traditions alive through spoken & written word, music and art.

   • Kitchener Public Library Writers' Group: Open to adults of all writing backgrounds, this group meets monthly at the Kitchener Public Library. Writers gather to critique each other’s work, exchange ideas, and take part in writing challenges.

   • Cambridge Writers Collective: An inclusive group of adult writers who meet twice a month to discuss and critique writing projects, ranging from poetry to novels. The group fosters a friendly environment for sharing ideas and developing writing skills.

   • KW Writer's Alliance: This group is open to adult writers across different genres, focusing on improving writing craft, receiving feedback, and networking. They organize workshops, critique sessions, and social events for writers.

   • Guelph Write Now: Get together with other writers to discuss story structure, marketing your work, publishers, agents, brainstorming. We will even have the occasional critique.

9. Try a Cooking Class

   • Guelph Community Health Centre - Hosts healthy cooking classes that emphasize nutrition and wellness.

   • The Cooking School at the Kitchener Market - Hosts various classes featuring local ingredients and seasonal dishes.

   • Wellington County Museum and Archives - Occasionally hosts cooking demonstrations and workshops focusing on local history and traditional recipes.

   • Local farms and markets - Many farms offer seasonal workshops or classes that include cooking with farm-fresh ingredients.

   • Local community centres and colleges often run cooking classes, which provide an opportunity to learn new skills and socialize.

10. Attend Farmers’ Markets

    • Visit the Guelph Farmers' Market or St. Jacobs Market to meet local vendors and connect with others in a relaxed setting.

11. Take a Photography Walk

    • Guelph Photography Club host photography outings, which combine creativity with gentle social interaction.

    • Elora Photography Collective - Based in Elora, this group explores photography within the scenic landscapes of Wellington County. They host photo walks and occasional workshops.

    • Fergus and District Camera Club - A small but active photography group that meets regularly to share tips, critique photos, and explore photography projects together.
      

12. Join a Local Gym or Fitness Class
    Many gyms offer low-impact classes such as Aquafit or Tai Chi, which are ideal for individuals dealing with chronic pain.

    
    

13. Attend Mental Health Support Groups
    Programs like Self Help & Peer Support in Guelph, Kitchener, and Cambridge offer peer-led groups where people can discuss mental health challenges in a supportive environment.

    
    

14. Go to the Movies
    Some local cinemas, like Apollo Cinema in Kitchener, The Bookshelf Cinema in Guelph, and the Original Princess Theatre in Waterloo offer relaxed screenings where you can enjoy films in a community setting.

15. Join a Board Game Night
    The Roundtable in Guelph has board games available as a fun and low-pressure way to meet new people, and for when you are feeling more adventurous, they also have archery and axe throwing. The Adventurers Guild Cafe in Kitchener and Games on Tap

16. Take a Pottery Class
    Studios like Play with Clay in Guelph and Crock A Doodle in Waterloo, offer classes where you can create pottery while interacting with others.

    
    

17. Attend an Outdoor Concert
    In summer, parks in both Guelph and Waterloo often host free outdoor concerts, offering a relaxed atmosphere for socializing.

18. Participate in a Community Garden

    • Guelph’s Two Rivers Garden - work alongside others while enjoying nature.

    • Guelph Enabling Garden - Plant your own vegetables or flowers in a ground or raised bed, or have one-to-one experiences with a horticulture therapist. While you are there, don't forget to take a peek at the Spark of Brilliance mosaic!

    • Paulander Community Garden - Kitchener - A volunteer-run community garden that offers plots to local residents to grow vegetables, herbs, and flowers.

    • Sunnydale Community Garden - Situated near the Sunnydale Community Centre, this garden helps local residents grow their own vegetables and herbs, with a focus on building connections and teaching gardening skills.

    • University of Waterloo Campus Community Garden - Located on the UW campus, this garden is open to both students and local residents, offering plots and opportunities to learn about sustainable gardening.

    • Cambridge Self-Help Food Bank Community Garden - This garden is connected to the food bank and supports the local community by providing space to grow fresh food while fostering collaboration and sustainability.

      
      

19. Go to a Coffee Social
    Some community centres and churches host regular coffee socials where people can chat casually.

20. Attend Free Library Events
    Most main branches of libraries offer workshops, author talks, and social events.

21. Take a Gentle Fitness Class
    YMCA-YWCA locations offers gentle fitness programs, which cater to those with mobility issues or chronic pain.

22. Join a Music Group
    Organizations like Kitchener-Waterloo Community Orchestra and Guelph Concert Band offer community music programs that provide a fun, social atmosphere.

23. Try Bowling
    Splitsville in Guelph offers recreational leagues, providing a laid-back environment for socializing. If you are in Kitchener, try AMF-Frederick.

24. Participate in a Mental Health Education Group
    For those who prefer virtual interaction, groups like CMHA Waterloo-Wellington offer online peer support meetings as well as educational webinars.

25. Go to a Trivia Night
    Many local pubs, like The Wooly Pub in Guelph, host weekly trivia nights, which offer a fun way to connect with others.

26. Join a Pet Therapy Program
    St. John Ambulance offers pet therapy programs where you can interact with animals and other participants, which can be soothing for both mind and body.

27. Attend a Local Festival
    Events like Multicultural Festival in Kitchener or Ribfest in Guelph are great ways to meet new people in a fun setting.

28. Sign Up for an Adult Learning Course
    Colleges like Conestoga College offer continuing education courses, providing a structured way to meet others while learning something new.

29. Join a Support Group for Chronic Pain
    Groups like the Chronic Pain Association of Canada host local support meetings for those managing pain.

30. Go to an Open Mic Night
    Local cafes such as Silence Guelph host open mic nights where people can listen or participate in a relaxed, community-oriented space.

31. Take a Bird-watching Tour
    Nature groups like Rare Charitable Research Reserve in Cambridge and the Arboretum in Guelph host bird-watching walks, combining nature and light socializing.

32. Join a Dance Class
    The Flying Dance Company in Guelph offers social dance lessons, which are a great way to get active and meet others.

33. Go to a Museum Exhibit
    Visit the Guelph Civic Museum or Waterloo Region Museum to attend exhibitions and talks that encourage social interaction.

34. Attend a Play or Theatre Performance
    Local venues like The River Run Centre, Guelph Little Theatre, and The Registry Theatre often host live theatre, providing a shared cultural experience.

35. Join a Choir
    Groups like The Guelph Chamber Choir and The Rainbow Chorus welcome new members and offer a community for those who enjoy singing.

36. Take a Tai Chi Class
    Many community centres offers tai chi classes, which are beneficial for those with chronic pain while fostering social connections.

37. Attend a Spiritual or Religious Gathering
    Local churches and spiritual centres, such as Unity Kitchener, host gatherings where you can find community and support.

38. Go to a Comedy Show
    The Making Box in Guelph hosts comedy nights, which provide a light-hearted and welcoming space to socialize

39. Take a Gardening Workshop
    Workshops at places like Greenway Blooming Centre in Kitchener offer a way to learn new skills while connecting with others.

40. Attend a Writing Workshop
    Both Wordsworth Books in Waterloo and The Bookshelf in Guelph host writing workshops that encourage collaboration and sharing.

41. Join a Hiking Group
    Groups like the Guelph Hiking Trail Club organize easy-to-moderate hikes that allow for physical activity and socializing in nature.

42. Join a Flash Mob Group
    Sign up to participate in a flash mob - performing an unusual or seemingly random act—often a choreographed dance, song, or performance. You can find a list of groups on Meetup.com, or look for local groups using Google.

43. Join a Support Group for Depression
    Mood Disorders Society of Canada offers peer support groups in the area for those struggling with depression.

44. Take Part in a Trivia League
    Groups like KW Trivia League host regular trivia nights that offer fun and casual socializing.

45. Go to a Farmers' Market
    Farmer's Markets are always hustling and bustling. If you aren't in the mood to get together with a group, you could stop and chat with vendors while shopping. Or, even better, join the Rural Romp and learn from local farmers!

46. Attend Outdoor Fitness Events
    During summer, The City of Kitchener often hosts free outdoor fitness events, including yoga and tai chi in local parks.

47. Participate in a Community Art Project
    Join community art projects with organizations like Kitchener-Waterloo Art Gallery, which offer collaborative and social experiences. Spark of Brilliance also hosts an annual "Art Works for Mental Health" community art exhibit and sale! Email for more information about how to volunteer or submit artwork!

48. Sign Up for a Mindfulness Group
    Many local community centres and wellness studios offer mindfulness and relaxation groups, perfect for people with chronic pain or stress.

49. Attend a Science or History Talk
    Universities often host public talks and lectures on various topics. Sign up for their newletters/mailing lists to stay on top of what is offered at your local university.

50. Join a Community Centre Sports League
    Many community and recreation centres offer sports leagues like indoor soccer, basketball, and volleyball for all ages andskill levels. Information is usually available through your local City website.

51. Go to a Craft Fair
    Events like Kitchener’s Christkindl Market or Aberfoyle Antique Market are great places to socialize while exploring crafts and handmade goods.

52. Sign Up for a Pilates Class
    Pilates in Guelph offers beginner classes that combine fitness with social connection.

53. Participate in a Beach Clean-Up
    Groups like The Great Canadian Shoreline Cleanup organize community-based environmental efforts.

54. Take a Jewellery-Making Workshop
    Sadly, several places that used to host jewellery-making workshops in Guelph and K-W are no longer in business. However, if you're still looking for jewellery workshops, you might want to try checking local art centres, maker spaces, or community centers in the Kitchener area, as they sometimes host pop-up or seasonal jewellery-making workshops. You can also explore local artists' studios who may offer private or small-group jewellery-making sessions.

55. Join a Chess Club
    Join the Guelph Chess Club to meet new people while engaging in a mental challenge.

56. Attend Public Art Tours
    Both Kitchener and Guelph organize public art walks, which are a fun way to engage with local culture while meeting new people.

57. Go to a Wellness Fair
    Attend wellness events like the Guelph Wellness Expo to learn more about health while socializing.

58. Go to a Drag Bingo Show
    Crystal Quartz Events hosts Drag Bingo, Drag Brunch, and even a drag event where you can make votive candles!

59. Join a Knitting Group
    Libraries and community centres often host knitting and crochet groups where participants work on projects together.

60. Attend a Storytelling Event
    Storytelling nights, like those hosted by Guelph Guild of Story-Tellers, offer opportunities to share and listen to personal stories.

61. Attend a Powwow
    Visit a local powwow like Grand River Powwow and learn about Indigenous culture while meeting new friends.

62. Take a Trail Walk
    Use the app All Trails to discover trails in your very own neighbour that are rated by difficulty. Invite a friend or family member to take a peaceful walk in nature.

63. Join a Scrapbooking Group
    Some community centres, like Victoria Hills Community Centre in Kitchener, host regular scrapbooking meetups.

64. Go to a Poetry Slam
    Attend events like Word on the Street to enjoy and perform poetry in a social setting.

65. Participate in Geocaching or Letterboxing with Friends
    Geocaching is an outdoor recreational activity where participants use GPS-enabled devices (like smartphones) to find hidden containers, called "geocaches" or "caches," placed at specific coordinates. Each cache typically contains a logbook to sign, and sometimes small trinkets that you can trade with something of equal or greater value. Geocaching is a global activity, with millions of caches hidden in urban, rural, and remote areas around the world. Letterboxing is similar but instead of GPS people use directions and maps, and are usually more creative and include more handmade elements.
    

If you’re feeling depressed, in chronic pain, or if socializing feels like a challenge due to introversion, it’s important to remember that connection doesn’t have to be all-or-nothing. Start small. Whether it’s attending an online event, sending a message to a friend, or joining a group where the pressure to socialize is low, these small steps can build toward greater connection over time.

Always prioritize activities that feel safe and manageable. Remember, the goal isn’t necessarily to become a social butterfly overnight—it’s about finding what feels right for you and what helps you feel supported in your mental health journey!

If you have any more ideas to add to this list, feel free to send them along to me!