As the days grow shorter and temperatures drop, taking care of your mental wellbeing is just as important as looking after your physical health. Bradford District Care NHS Foundation Trust’s Bradford District and Craven Talking Therapies team is encouraging residents of Bradford, Airedale, Wharfedale, and Craven to focus on their mental health this season.

The NHS service provides support for those experiencing stress, low mood, and other mental health challenges, and has created some valuable tips to help everyone feel their best throughout the autumn and winter months.

Naomi Holdsworth, Operations Service Manager at Bradford District and Craven Talking Therapies said: “While some of us look forward to the cosy comforts of the colder months, others may struggle with low energy and mood as the days get darker. We’ve gathered some practical tips to help people stay mentally well during winter.”

Here are the team’s top tips, plus a few more, for keeping your mental health in check as winter approaches:

Embrace the early evenings to get active

Use the darker evenings as a chance to establish a new indoor or home exercise routine. Winter may give you a bit more flexibility with your time, so try exercising earlier in the evening, even if it’s just a brisk walk or stretching session. Physical activity releases endorphins that boost mood, which is especially helpful during months with less daylight.

Savor nutrient-rich comfort foods

Colder months are perfect for cooking wholesome, warming meals like stews and soups packed with seasonal vegetables. These foods are rich in vitamins and minerals that support both physical and mental health, helping you feel grounded and resilient in the face of daily stress.

Step outside and enjoy nature, even if just briefly

Fresh air remains beneficial, even when it’s chilly. Try to get outside every day, if only for a few minutes. Exposure to natural light and brisk, fresh air can help alleviate the symptoms of Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) and lift your spirits.

Stay hydrated

It’s easy to forget to drink water when it’s cold out, but staying hydrated is essential for concentration, energy levels, and overall brain health. Keep a water bottle on hand and consider adding herbal teas to your routine as a warm, hydrating alternative.

Practice daily mindfulness

Taking a few minutes each day to focus on the present can work wonders for your mental wellbeing. Try listening to calming sounds, like nature recordings, or simply notice your breathing. Practicing mindfulness can reduce stress and improve resilience over time.

Connect with friends and family

It’s easy to feel isolated during colder months, so make a point to stay socially connected. Virtual meetups, phone calls, and even quick texts can remind you that support is there. Social interaction is a key factor in maintaining mental wellbeing, especially when the winter blues creep in.

Set small, positive goals each day

Setting achievable daily goals, like tidying a small area of your home, trying a new recipe, or reading a chapter of a book, can help boost motivation and provide a sense of accomplishment. These little wins add up, especially during months that feel stagnant or challenging.

Get creative

Try using the indoor season as a time to explore a new hobby, like painting, knitting, or baking. Creative activities can be therapeutic and provide a mental boost by engaging your mind and helping you feel productive and fulfilled.

Reach out if you need support

If you’re feeling persistently low or anxious, Bradford District and Craven Talking Therapies offers free support to anyone over 16 who is registered with a GP in the area. Whether it’s through online courses or talking therapy, reaching out can provide you with the tools to manage difficult emotions.

Alongside online courses, that individuals can complete from the comfort of their own homes, the service also offers a range of options to suit individual needs. These include group courses, delivered both in person and online, phone advice or one-to-one courses at a range of locations available across the district.

For additional wellbeing tips and free resources, visit Bradford District Craven Talking Therapies: www.bdctalkingtherapies.nhs.uk or check out the Healthy Minds site www.healthyminds.services for all mental health and wellbeing support services and self-help tools in Bradford and Craven. This winter, take time to focus on small steps toward self-care and remember that support is available if you need it.