Reducing stress, anxiety and loneliness this winter

Whilst some people love the festive season, for others it can be a stressful time of year, and some feel more anxious and lonelier than ever. If this is you, you are not alone in feeling this way. However, there are simple things you can do to help you feel better, and there is support available if you need it.

If you are struggling with sleep, anxiety or stress, watch our short videos from local mental health professionals who share their top tips to help you cope. We know that it can be easy to make excuses not to seek help such as “There are people worse off than me, I should be able to cope with this” or “I don’t want to burden my family and friends”.

If this sounds familiar, you are not alone and our series of videos also includes knowing when to seek help: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLc9nBpps5JGymgdXqrko7IIWkJ1mEQ_Js

Feeling SAD this winter? You may be experiencing Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD). There are things you can do to help with this, including eating a healthy, balanced diet. Visit the winter mental health page at for tips on coping with SAD: Winter wellbeing: managing mental health during the colder months - Mid and South Essex Integrated Care System (ics.nhs.uk)

Coping with grief during the Christmas season – While some people seem to be full of the joys of season, for others Christmas can be especially difficult if you have lost a loved one. Visit At a Loss AtaLoss.org is the UK's signposting and information website for bereaved people for bereavement information and support.

Talking Therapies – If you are struggling with your mental health, talking therapies could help. You can refer yourself and you can access Talking Therapies online, face to face or on the phone. More info at: Mental Health Services - Mid and South Essex Integrated Care System (ics.nhs.uk) 

For more information on all of the above, visit: Winter wellbeing: managing mental health during the colder months - Mid and South Essex Integrated Care System (ics.nhs.uk)