The winter months can be difficult for many of us and our mental health. 

With dropping temperatures and shorter days, we might feel the need to sleep for longer, notice a change in our appetite, or find it difficult to do things we normally enjoy. 

Below are five things that, according to research, can really help to boost our mental wellbeing: 

Five steps to mental wellbeing 

Connect

Connect with the people around you: your family, friends, colleagues and neighbours. Spend time developing these relationships.  

Be active

You don't have to go to the gym. Take a walk, go cycling or play a game of football. Find an activity that you enjoy and make it a part of your life.  

Keep learning

Learning new skills can give you a sense of achievement and a new confidence. So why not sign up for that cooking course, start learning to play a musical instrument, or figure out how to fix your bike?  

Give to others

Even the smallest act can count, whether it's a smile, a thank you or a kind word. Larger acts, such as volunteering at your local community centre, can improve your mental wellbeing and help you build new social networks.  

Be mindful

Be more aware of the present moment, including your thoughts and feelings, your body and the world around you. Some people call this awareness "mindfulness". It can positively change the way you feel about life and how you approach challenges. 

For further advice and support on mental wellbeing visit: Mental wellbeing | NHS inform 

Published: 18/03/2025 21:00