Cumberland Council is encouraging residents to keep their mind and body healthy as the colder and darker nights draw in.
The council urges residents to reach out and speak to loved ones and professionals if they’re struggling with their physical or mental health.
Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) is known to be prevalent at this time of year, with the lack of sunlight affecting people negatively, and symptoms peaking from November to February.
Younger people, those with a history of depression, or with family members who have the disorder are more likely to be affected. Symptoms include:
- A persistent low mood.
- Lack of energy.
- Loss of interest or pleasure in normal activities.
- Irritability.
- Feelings of despair, guilt, or worthlessness.
- Difficulty concentrating.
Colin Cox, Director of Public Health and Communities, said: “The lack of sunlight and the cold weather impacts hormone levels and people’s will to exercise and socialise.
“It’s a really important time of the year to keep active, be in touch with loved ones, and to prioritise your health and wellbeing.”
Residents are encouraged to:
- Wrap up warm and take a walk in the fresh air during daylight hours. Taking a break from your daily routine, particularly if you work from home and don’t usually leave the house.
- Make time to socialise with friends, support the local economy and visit a café or restaurant, or go to your local community centre or library for a catch-up.
- Check on your family, friends, and neighbours, particularly if they live alone.
- Eat well and stay hydrated. Stock up on hearty winter soups packed with vegetables and avoid heavy food with processed sugars which can impact on your energy and your mood.
- Get plenty of good quality sleep and avoid stimulants such as alcohol or large quantities of caffeine.
- Speak to a professional if you find your mood or mental health being affected and you need help.
- Follow Mind’s ‘five ways to wellbeing’ advice when you’re at work. Connect with others, get active, take notice of how you’re feeling, learn new things, and give back.
Mr Cox continued: “Whilst many people feel less energised and more emotional during the autumn and winter months, for some, this can be too much to bear.
“We strongly encourage anyone that feels they need support to get through the darker days, to reach out and get help.
“There are many organisations that have a wealth of resources on offer to see you through to brighter times. There is help out there for everyone, no matter their circumstances.”
For support in Cumberland:
- Mindline Cumbria offers support and guidance about mental health over the phone (call 0300 561 0000), via text (text ‘mind’ to 81066) or email info@mindlinecumbria.org.
- Call the Samaritans (any time) on 116 123 for free, or email jo@samaritans.org
- Every Life Matters has a range of support, including guides to looking after yourself and others.
- Visit your GP if you need help to manage your mood and mental health.
- Call your local Crisis Team 24 hours a day, seven days a week.
- North Cumbria - 0800 6522 865 (those who are hard of hearing can text 0779 565 6226).
- South Cumbria - 0800 953 0110.
- NHS psychological therapies services in Cumbria can provide treatments for a range of common mental health problems including depression, anxiety disorders and panic attacks, and post-traumatic stress disorder. You can refer yourself for support or ask your GP to make a referral for you.
- Call NHS North Cumbria Talking Therapies on 0300 123 9122.
- Call NHS South Cumbria Talking Therapies on 0300 555 0345.
- North Cumbria Recovery College offers sessions on recovery from mental illness. Call 0808 196 1773 or email hello@ncrecoverycollege.org.