Winter is here and this is how you can support your wellbeing

Winter has well and truly arrived, bringing with it changes to the weather and, for some, their wellbeing. At this time of year, cooler temperatures and shorter days can make things appear more challenging.  

It’s not surprising that many people in the UK struggle during the winter months. Motivation to exercise can dip, we may spend less time outdoors in natural sunlight, and our diet often changes due to festive celebrations like Christmas. 

Why winter impacts our wellbeing 

Shorter daylight hours can disrupt our circadian rhythm which can affect our sleep and mood, and reduced exposure to sunlight lowers vitamin D levels, which can influence our energy levels. Cold weather can also discourage us from exercising, leading to feelings of guilt and lethargy. 

Social isolation is another factor. During the winter many people spend more time indoors, which can reduce opportunities for connection with others.  

When combined these changes can negatively impact our wellbeing. But there are practical steps we can take to support our mental and physical health. 

Some find winter especially difficult, around 2 million people in the UK experience Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD), a form of depression linked to seasonal changes. Symptoms can include persistent low mood, fatigue, and changes in appetite or sleep. 

Again, evidence shows that a combination of wellbeing-based activities and talking therapy can significantly benefit those affected by SAD. Light therapy, regular exercise, and social connection are also recommended strategies. 

Your wellbeing in winter: practical tips 

The good news is there are actions you can take to feel better during the colder months. Many of the activities and events below are either free or run at a low cost – so please do give them a try!  

Here are some ideas: 

• Stay active indoors: boost your mood and energy by joining one of our Pilates or Stay Active classes to keep moving without braving the cold. 
• Seek natural light: try to get outside during daylight hours, even for a short walk. Natural light helps regulate your body clock and supports mental health. 
• Practice mindful movement: activities like yoga or Tai Chi can improve flexibility, reduce stress, and promote relaxation. 
• Connect with others: socialising is vital for wellbeing. Why not visit one of our Wellbeing Cafés or join our Shared Reading Group.  
• Explore self-help resources: our Wellbeing Toolkit includes guided meditation and other resources to help you manage stress and improve resilience. 

What support services can I access?  

Winter can trigger feelings of low mood or worry, especially if your sleep pattern changes or you struggle to maintain your usual routines. Talking therapies like Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) or counselling can provide tools to identify what’s impacting your wellbeing and help you take steps to challenge those things. 

At Meridian Wellbeing, our Counselling and CBT service offers a safe, welcoming environment where qualified and trained therapists will work with you on your wellbeing journey. 

If you would like to talk with someone about counselling or CBT, please email [email protected] or visit our Counselling Service page. 

Image credit: Heart on snowy window of car parked on street in winter by Erik Mclean