Winter wellbeing tips

Winter can be a challenging time for many of us, particularly during the first few weeks of the new year. There can be added pressures from ‘new year, new me’ goals, aspirations, and positivity, while those of us who struggle with our mental health may find ourselves simply trying to survive each day as it comes.

If you are currently feeling less optimistic about 2026 and struggling after the festive period, it’s important to know that you are not alone. Many of us experience low mood, burnout, and difficulty navigating daily life. During the shorter, darker days, it’s common to lose motivation and let slip the routines and habits that support our mental health.

Here are a few quick tips and suggestions for supporting your wellbeing over the winter period:

“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.”

Keep to a daily routine

With the shorter, darker days, it can be much more 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 term.

Get active outside in nature

Spending just a short time outside each day can help you to feel more 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 often help you find solutions to current challenges. Please reach out to a professional if you need further support. Check out our list of helplines for organisations available 24/7.

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. Relationships with food and sleep can also further impact our 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.

Plan something to look forward to

Making plans for something to look forward to can help you to feel more optimistic and focus on the 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.