Stay well this winter
The clocks are changing this weekend, and while that means an extra hour in bed, it also means that the evenings will be darker sooner. Many of us can struggle more with our mental health in the darker winter months, but there is help out there.
You can access free talking therapies without the need to go through your GP through Everyturn Mental Health (availability is dependent on where you live). You will be able to talk to a qualified professional about a range of mental health concerns including anxiety, stress and bereavement. You can refer yourself through the Everyturn Mental Health website.
There are some other things you can do to try and beat the winter blues:
Try to get as much natural light as you can. If you can get outdoors during the day try to do this as much as you can. Natural light is a great mood booster. If you live near to our Wellbeing Garden or the WestRaven Community Garden, pop along and spend some time there. If you can’t get out, try to sit by a window, especially on a sunny day.
Keep talking. It can be easy to hide away in the winter months, but it is really important to stay connected. Groups like our Men Together or the Friendship and Games group at the WestRaven Community Café can help you to meet new people in a safe and relaxed environment. Look out for community groups in your area. The How are You Peterborough website is a great resource for local people.
Keep moving. If we are not really careful our exercise levels can reduce in the winter. It can be harder to find the motivation to get moving, but it’s really important that we do. If you can’t get outside to do some exercise there are lots of options for work outs online. There’s everything from gentle chair yoga to full on, high intensity sessions, so have a look and you’re sure to find something to get the muscles working!