When it gets colder and darker outside, we can sometimes feel low. Here are some things we can do to support ourselves during winter.
Keep active
It can be hard to stay active in the winter. But exercise can help to reduce stress, give us more energy and improve our sleep. Exercise does not mean we have to go to the gym or play sports. It could mean dancing in your chair, walking to work or doing some gentle stretches.
Get out of the house
In winter, we often spend much less time out and about. But getting a bit of sunlight during the day is really good for us. You could go for a long walk with a friend, take a bike ride or even just walk to the shop.
Stay connected
We often spend more time indoors during winter. If your energy levels are low, you may not feel like going out or talking to people. But over time, being alone can turn into loneliness. Making time to see people or phone our friends can help us to feel connected.
Learn new things
Learning new things can boost our confidence. And there are lots of new things we can learn while we are indoors in winter. For example, take up a new hobby like knitting, painting or cooking.
For more information on looking after yourself in Winter, see Health in Mind’s resource.
Other services
If you are finding things hard, you can contact one of the following services:
The Samaritans
The Samaritans offer a safe place for you to talk any time you like. You can talk in your own way about whatever is going on. They have a helpline, email service, letter service and a self-help app.
Open 24 hours a day, 365 days a year.
Phone for free on 116123
Breathing Space
Breathing Space is a free and confidential phone service for anyone in Scotland over the age of 16 who is feeling low, depressed or anxious.
Open 6pm to 2am Monday to Thursday, and 6pm to 6am Friday to Sunday.
Phone for free on 0800 83 85 87
Shout
Shout is a free, confidential, text messaging support service for anyone who is finding it difficult to cope.
Text SHOUT to 85258
