Winter Wellbeing

Winter can be a magical season—but it can also be a tough one. Shorter days, colder weather, busier schedules, and a lot less sunlight can affect how we feel, think, and cope. Feeling tired? Finding it hard to stay motivated? You’re not alone! This time of year affects people of all ages—young people, parents, and the professionals who support them. That’s why we’ve put together 4 easy ideas to help you look after yourself, boost your mood, and stay on top of things during the colder months.

Stay Connected 

Winter can make it tempting to hibernate, but keeping in touch with people is one of the best ways to protect your wellbeing. Connection helps lift your mood, reduces stress, and reminds you that you’re not facing things alone.

Try to make space for small moments of connection: a quick chat, a walk with someone, a call, or spending time together doing something low-key. Even sending a message to check in with a friend or colleague can brighten both your days. If you’re finding things tough, opening up to someone you trust can make a big difference, and reaching out doesn’t have to be a big step, it can be super simple.

Be Active

We’re not talking about running marathons in the snow. Just moving your body regularly supports mood, energy, and sleep. 

• Short walks during daylight hours
• Stretching, dance videos, or home workouts
• Team sports or after-school clubs
• Fun, seasonal activities like skating, winter hikes, or even building a snowman

The key is to choose something that is enjoyable as it will feel less like a chore!

Celebrate Small, Cosy Moments

Winter isn’t only about cold weather and dark mornings—it's also a season full of small comforts that can boost your wellbeing. Noticing these little moments can help balance the tougher days and bring a sense of calm and joy.

This might look like enjoying a warm drink, wrapping up in your favourite hoodie, lighting a scented candle, or settling into a hobby you love. Maybe it’s watching a film, listening to music, taking a quiet moment before the day starts, or appreciating the festive lights around your community.

These moments don’t have to be big or Instagram-worthy. What matters is allowing yourself to pause, relax, and enjoy something that brings you comfort. Leaning into the cosy side of winter can help you feel more grounded and make the season feel a little brighter.

Reach Out 

Everyone struggles from time to time, and winter can make things feel even heavier. It’s important to remember that you don’t have to cope with difficult thoughts or feelings on your own. Reaching out for support is a positive, brave step—not a sign of weakness.

If you notice that stress, low mood, anxiety, or overwhelm are sticking around or getting harder to manage, talking to someone you trust can make a real difference. This could be a friend, family member, teacher, colleague, or another supportive person in your life. Sharing how you feel can help lighten the load and open up space for understanding and solutions.

There are also local and national services available if you need extra support. Helplines, online chats, youth services, and wellbeing teams are there to listen and help. You’re never alone, there is always someone ready to hear you, support you, and guide you toward the help you need.

Winter brings unique pressures, but it also offers opportunities to slow down, reflect, and strengthen our wellbeing. By using practical strategies and seeking support when needed, young people and the adults around them can feel more resilient and connected through the season. Keep checking in with yourself and others, celebrate small wins, and reach out if you need a hand.

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