Winter Blues: How to boost your wellbeing

If you’re feeling blue this winter, you’re not alone. According to NHS inform, “the winter blues, or seasonal affective disorder (SAD), affects around 2 million people in the UK.

Here are a few simple ways you can start to boost your wellbeing 💙

• Let the light in. Open your curtains first thing in the morning to allow as much light into your space as possible. If that’s not enough, you might want to invest in a natural sunlight lamp to keep on your desk.
• Spend time outside. Challenge yourself to spend some time outside every day. Even a five minute walk or sitting outside in the natural light for a while can help you to feel a bit better.
• Connect. Respond to one unanswered text or send a message to a friend you haven't talked to in a while. One short message can be enough to help us start to feel connected to others when we feel down.
• Turn up the tunes. Music is a well-known mood booster. If you’re struggling to find the motivation to get out of bed, some upbeat sounds can help. Pick the first playlist you like the look of and see how it makes you feel.
• Try to keep a morning routine. Set aside 30 minutes to enjoy a hot drink and some breakfast, read, stretch, listen to a podcast - or whatever else that brings you joy and comfort. Having something to look forward to first thing vs. jumping right into studies can boost your mood and help you feel motivated and more positive.

If ever you need more support, Shout is there for you 24/7. Text ‘Shout’ to 85258 to have a text conversation with one of their trained volunteers, who are there to listen and support you at any time of day or night. Alternatively, check out their online resources here.