Seven mental health tips to help get you through winter

As we head towards what could be a very different Christmas this year, there are many positive things you can do to keep your spirits up and nurture your mental wellbeing.

Try following these tips to help you get through these testing times:

Be kind to yourself

2020 has been challenging. It’s understandable if you feel frazzled or fed up. Please don’t beat yourself up about it and don’t pretend you’re invincible.

Have a routine

Many mental health experts say following a daily routine is useful if you’re feeling anxious or depressed. Set your alarm for the same time every day, get up, shower and get dressed. These habits will provide a good structure and prevent days merging into weeks.

Try something new

While it’s important to have structure, it’s also crucial that you don’t fall into a rut. Set aside time each day to try something new. Learn a language or instrument or take an online course on a subject that piques your interest. Set yourself small, achievable goals – you don’t have to master the bassoon in a fortnight – and take pleasure in broadening your skills.

Recognise positive and negative influences

Does your mood plummet after watching the news? Do you feel rage after scrolling through Twitter or anxiety after a heavy night on the booze? Learn to recognise – and avoid – negative influences. Also, take note of what makes you feel good, be it yoga, baking or YouTube videos of skateboarding dogs. Indulge in what brings you joy.

Step away from the screen

Spend a little time each day outdoors doing something you enjoy. Walk, run, cycle or scoot – if it is outdoor physical activity, it’s a good thing. Exercise generates feelgood chemicals called endorphins and helps you sleep. Consider exercising at lunchtime, instead of after work, to make the most of the daylight. If it’s dark, you’re more likely to find an excuse not to do it.

Make time to talk to friends

Stay connected with loved ones. If you’re not a fan of Zoom, then drop them a short text message to see if they’re okay or send a surprise postcard, letter or gift. These small spontaneous gestures will be appreciated (and perhaps reciprocated). If someone is feeling lonely or down, your thoughtfulness could make their day.

Mindfulness

Stay “in the moment”. Focus on the here and now and don’t let your mind run away with thoughts about what may or may not happen in the future. Don’t focus on things that are out of your control. Concentrate on the things you can do and do them well.

Here at Duncan Yeardley we understand how important it is to talk about our mental health. If you’re struggling, remember you’re not alone.

If you need to seek help please contact the Samaritans in the UK on 116 123 or email jo@samaritans.org.