As the nights draw in and the festive season approaches, it’s easy to feel the pressure of Christmas or the weight of loneliness during the colder months. While winter can bring joy and celebration, it can also be a challenging time for many people.
Shorter days, financial worries, family tensions, and feelings of isolation can all affect our wellbeing. If you’re struggling, remember you’re not alone, and support is available.
Signs that someone may be finding things difficult include ongoing sadness, anxiety, withdrawal from others, or changes in behaviour. Reaching out early can make a big difference.
Did you know? You can visit NHS Every Mind Matters for practical tips to manage stress, ease anxiety, and improve sleep.
We encourage everyone in North East Lincolnshire to:
- Connect: Build relationships with people around you.
- Be Active: Engage in physical activities that you enjoy.
- Take Notice: Be mindful of the present moment and appreciate your surroundings.
- Keep Learning: Try new things and continue to develop your skills.
- Give: Offer your time, words, or presence to others.
And remember…
- Be kind to yourself
- Connect with nature
- Try to stay in the present (don’t relive the past or worry about the future).
Where to get help if you are struggling
If you feel alone or are struggling, please know that help is available 24 hours a day, seven days a week – even over the Christmas period.
If you are worried about someone’s immediate safety, do not hesitate to contact 999. Many factors can contribute to poor mental wellbeing and mental illness. Support is available, whether you’re struggling with housing, job loss, relationship breakdown, financial worries, or something else. You don’t have to face these challenges alone.
- Citizens Advice can help with practical advice and signposting on a wide range of issues, including housing, debt, employment, and benefits.
- ConnectNEL is a free community service that can help you find the right support for whatever you’re facing.
- Relate offers counselling and support for individuals, couples, and families who are experiencing relationship difficulties.
- Books on Prescription, available through local libraries, offer a range of self-help reading materials recommended by health professionals to support mental wellbeing and recovery.
Samaritans
If you are going through a tough time and need a listening ear, call Samaritans 116 123.
Shout
Free, 24/7 text service. Text ‘ORANGE’ to 85258 or visit their website to find out more, and access various resources.
PAPYRUS
For young people under 35 years old, call Papyrus HOPELINE on 0800 068 41 41 or text ‘Hope’ to 88247.
PAPYRUS App Library
We know it can be really hard to reach out for support, and if you’re not ready to ask for help yet, you’re not alone. The PAPYRUS app library includes a wide range of apps covering topics such as anxiety, depression, neurodivergence, self-harm and guidance on supporting someone else.
Navigo’s Safespace Cafe
Visit the Safespace café at Navigo’s Coffee House on Brighowgate in Grimsby – open from 5.30 – 11.30pm every evening. Full details on Navigo’s website. You can also join online.
Crisis Mental Health Support
For Crisis Mental Health Support for all ages; call 01472 256256, option 3, or walk-in (24 hours a day) to Harrison House on Peaks Lane, Grimsby.
Or speak to your GP, a trusted friend, or family member.
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