As the nights draw in and the temperature drops, many people find that their mood, energy levels and overall wellbeing shift. In fact, for some this seasonal change can lead to a condition called Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD), where the symptoms of low mood rise during the darker months.
But even if it’s not SAD, the winter season still affects many of us — underlining the importance of intentional self-care, connection and community. Here are some helpful winter wellbeing strategies.
Make the Most of Light and Fresh Air
According to Mind’s guidance:
“Try to spend time in natural light. It might help to go for walks, spend time in parks or gardens — or simply sit near a window.”
Simple actions:
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Take a short walk at lunchtime when daylight is at its peak.
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Sit by a window whenever possible when indoors.
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Plan outdoor time even when it’s grey — fresh air and movement count.
These help regulate your body clock, uplift your mood, and protect your resilience.
Connect and Get Support at Our Good Mood Cafes
Staying socially connected is vital in the winter months. That’s why our Good Mood Cafes offer open, friendly spaces where you can drop in, have a chat, meet others, and take time for yourself. Whether you attend once, regularly, or just when you feel the need — you’re warmly welcome.
By coming together in a comfortable, low-pressure environment we help reduce loneliness, build community and boost wellbeing.
For a list of our Good Mood Cafes, just click here.
Plan Ahead & Build Resilience
Plan ahead for difficult periods by noticing patterns and scheduling supportive activities. Some ideas:
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Keep a simple diary of how you’re feeling, when, and what seems to help you.
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Create a “self-care kit” with a favourite book, playlist, photos or comforting items.
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Schedule relaxing or fun activities now rather than leaving them for “when you feel better.”
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Ensure you have some meals or essentials prepared ahead of time — low energy days come for many.
Being prepared helps you feel more in control when the darker days really hit.
Engage in Gentle Movement & Care for the Body
Your physical health supports your mental health in a strong way. As Mind notes:
“Looking after your physical health can make a difference to how you feel emotionally.”
Things to try:
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Light exercise — even gentle stretching, a short walk, some yoga, etc.
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Keep up with basic self-care: hygiene, getting out of bed, eating regular meals.
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Limit alcohol and substances as a coping strategy — they may worsen things over time.
Keep Perspective & Focus on the Positive
Winter can feel long and heavy, but it’s important to remember that the darker days aren’t permanent. Small actions and shifts in mindset can make a real difference to your mental wellbeing:
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Notice the positives: Even tiny things — a smile, a warm drink, or a sunny patch of light — can boost your mood.
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Celebrate small wins: Completing a task, going for a short walk, or reaching out to a friend all count.
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Practice gratitude: Take a moment each day to reflect on something you’re thankful for.
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Reframe challenges: Focus on what you can control and see the positives the winter months can bring.
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Be kind to yourself: Treat yourself with the same patience and understanding you’d give someone else.
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Stay hopeful: Remind yourself that winter will pass, and brighter days are ahead.
Give Back & Strengthen Your Community — Fundraise for Us
When the dark months can feel heavy, contributing to something positive helps lift spirits and build collective resilience. By fundraising for CPSL Mind you’re investing in local mental-health support across Peterborough, Cambridgeshire and South Lincolnshire.
Ideas:
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Host a winter bake sale, festive walks, or cosy movie-night fundraiser.
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Organise a team-event or personal challenge with sponsorship.
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Share your story or why you support mental health — it spreads hope and encourages others.
Every pound raised helps us run more Good Mood Cafes, peer-support groups, community outreach, and vital crisis services.
You’re Not Alone — Reach Out & Take Small Steps
Winter can be a tougher season for many, but you don’t have to go through it alone. Reach out — to someone you trust, to our Good Mood Cafes, or to us at CPSL Mind.
Each of these tips ties into the ‘Five Ways to Wellbeing’. For more information, please click here.
For more detailed tips specifically on SAD, please click here.
A Cambridge-based team is researching whether a virtual reality intervention may be as effective as standard light box therapy in treating seasonal affective disorder (SAD). ARU is currently recruiting adults (aged 18+) who self-identify or who have been diagnosed with SAD, or who experience low mood during the winter months. The study is being led by Dr Débora Vasconcelos e Sa (Principal Investigator) and Dr Jane Scott (Co-Investigator), and is funded by Innovate UK, UKRI. For more information, please click here.
If you are experiencing an emotional or mental health crisis, there are people who can help you. You can access the NHS First Response Service to speak with a mental health crisis team by calling 111 and selecting the mental health option.
You can also visit our ‘Get Help Now’ page for a full list of organisations and contact information to support you.
