SOMERSET County Council is sharing top tips to help support people through winter.

During the coming weeks, it is easy for people to become more isolated as they leave their homes less often, leading to loneliness, anxiety and even depression. Covid has added to the pressure.

Cllr Clare Paul, council member for health and wellbeing, said: “We all have a role to play in helping to tackle loneliness in our community.

“Loneliness can affect anyone but, particularly this time of year, it can impact older people who live alone, as they find it more difficult to be out and about during the winter months.

"Just a simple phone call to someone living on their own can make a huge difference to their day.”

Tips to fight winter loneliness:

  • Connect and spend time with people around you. Family, friends, colleagues and neighbours can support your mental wellbeing;
  • Call a friend or family member for a chat. It can make you feel better;
  • Keep active - take a walk, a stroll in the garden or dance around the living room to favourite music;
  • Get outside - check out getoutsideinsomerset.co.uk/;
  • Take time to be more aware of the present moment, including your thoughts and feelings, your body and the world around you;
  • Learn a new skill such as cooking a favourite dish you’ve never eaten at home? Or sign up for a course;
  • Rediscover an old hobby, whether it's model making, knitting, singing or writing;
  • Carry out an act of giving such as a kind word, a thank you or even a smile;
  • Become more mindful - visit www.nhs.uk/conditions/stress-anxiety-depression/mindfulness/;
  • Volunteer within your local community.

A county council spokesperson said: "Everyone’s mental wellbeing changes throughout their life, but it’s important not to just put up with poor mental health.

"If you’re concerned about how you are feeling, please speak to your GP or visit www.nhs.uk/conditions/stress-anxiety-depression/".

Mindline is a confidential listening service that is open 24 hours a day - 01823 334906. They can give emotional support and provide access to mental health services if required.

For information on other local organisations that can help visit Somerset Choices http://www.somersetchoices.org.uk and search ‘loneliness’.

If you are, or know someone, older who needs support it can be found at https://www.ageuk.org.uk/