Winter wellbeing: Mental health tips and advice for the new year

Advice
Written By Danielle Coleman

Winter can be a difficult time for many of us. This year, we all find ourselves faced with many unknowns, new challenges, and added life stresses.

The first few weeks of the new year can also feel particularly challenging for many of us, for lots of different reasons — for one, the pressures of the “new year, new me” goals, aspirations, and absolute positivity. Those of us who struggle with our mental health can often find ourselves trying to simply survive each day as it comes.

If you are feeling less than optimistic about 2023 and struggling after the festive period, it is important to know that you are not alone. Many of us can experience low mood, feel burnt out, and struggle to navigate daily life. During the shorter, darker days, it is common to lack motivation and let slip all those things that help support your mental health.

“When winter comes and I feel the change in the seasons, I feel more drained. I find it very hard to motivate myself into getting dressed or out of bed.”

There are lots of things that you can try to better take care of your wellbeing over the winter period. Here are a few top tips and suggestions for looking after yourself over the coming months:

Keep to a daily routine

With the shorter, darker, colder days, it can be really difficult to find the motivation for your normal activities. Having a daily routine in place can help you to better manage tasks and not feel so overwhelmed on the days you might be struggling.

Take time for the things you enjoy

For some of us, the bad weather and feeling stuck inside can have a real negative impact on our mental health. Finding new hobbies and activities to incorporate into your daily routines can boost your mood and give you something positive to focus on.

Prioritise time for self-care and relaxation

Taking time out each day to relax and unwind can help you better manage your stress levels. Whether that’s practicing breathing exercises or reading a book, finding the little moments of daily self-care can have a huge impact on your overall wellbeing in the short and long run.

Get active outside in nature

Spending just a short time outside each day can help you to feel refreshed and energised, despite the gloomier weather!

Ask for help if you need it

It’s always okay to ask for help if you need it. Sharing struggles with loved ones can help you find solutions to current challenges. Please reach out for professional support if you need it. Register for our support services and check out our contact finder for more organisations.

Stay connected with others

During the winter months, we tend to socialise less. This can often result in added feelings of loneliness. Taking the time to connect with loved ones, even a quick phone call, can have a huge impact on how you feel.

Look after your physical health

When you are feeling low, looking after your physical health can often become less of a priority. Your relationships with food and sleep can also further impact your mood. Making time to move your body regularly and eat well can help you to maintain healthier routines.

Journal your thoughts

Writing down your thoughts and feelings can be a really helpful way to explore and organise what’s going on in your mind. Whether that’s daily journaling, using a guided app, or simply using a notebook to consider your future goals and plans, it’s all good practice.

Plan something to look forward to

Making future plans for things to look forward to can help you to focus on the no-doubt brighter times ahead.

Join local support groups

Connecting with others within your community can help reduce feelings of isolation and loneliness. Joining a peer support group can provide the opportunity to talk and share experiences with others who might be feeling similarly. We currently run five peer support groups in Plymouth that are available to join now. Find out more here.

You are not alone!

If you or a loved one are struggling your mental health, please reach out and talk to someone. The following organisations are available to listen and offer support whenever you need it — 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. In an emergency, call 999 immediately.

Danielle Coleman
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