Support over winter 2025

The winter months and festive period can be a difficult time for many, with shorter days, colder weather and extra pressures from family, work or social expectations. It’s normal to feel more stressed, lonely or low during this time.

Our mental health support services are here to help, offering guidance, listening ears and practical resources to support your wellbeing throughout the season.

Coventry and Warwickshire Mental Wellbeing Line

Available 24/7, 365 days a year for connection, advice, information and signposting. If you’re an adult living in Coventry or Warwickshire, struggling with your mental health and not sure where to go for support, call us on 0800 616171 and we’ll help you with the next steps.

Safe Haven

Our Safe Haven service offers a calm, confidential space for anyone struggling with their mental health. In Coventry and Warwickshire, support is available every day from 6 pm–11 pm via phone, text, email or in person in Nuneaton or Coventry. In Worcestershire, support is available every day from 6 pm–1 am via phone. Whether you need someone to talk to, guidance or just a safe space, help is available whenever you need it.

Self-care tips for the winter months

  • Make the most of natural light – go for a short walk, spend some time in a park or green space for a while, or sit near a window while reading or listening to music.
  • Plan ahead – if you know you might feel less energetic and motivated during winter, plan ahead by batch cooking and freezing meals, and making sure you have enough supplies in early.
  • Keep a diary or journal – be patient with yourself, and write down the things that went well each day, such as getting up and dressed, making a meal, popping to the shops or going for a walk.
  • Prioritise your plans – sometimes, it’s hard to have the motivation or energy to make lots of plans during winter. Try to find the right balance between having quiet inside and spending time with friends and family to prevent isolation. Prioritise what means the most to you.

Talking to someone about your worries can help

Speaking to a family member or friend can help manage your mental health, but sometimes it’s easier to talk to someone you don’t know about your emotions and concerns. There are plenty of options if you feel you need a chat and a listening ear. Remember, you’re not alone in how you’re feeling.

  • Mind – find your local Mind services here
  • Samaritans – call 116 123 for free 24/7, 365 days a year
  • Papyrus – for those under 35 feeling suicidal (or those worried about an under-35-year-old); call HOPELINE247 on 0800 068 4141 24/7, 365 days a year
  • Shout – text 85258 if you’re feeling in crisis, 24/7, 365 days a year
  • SANE – emotional support for those struggling to cope with their mental health, and their family, friends and carers; call 0300 304 7000 4pm–10pm, 365 days a year

Help us help others

As we head into the winter months, the need for our services continues to grow. Your support makes a real difference, helping us keep vital programmes running for children, adults, families and professionals across the region. Every donation, big or small, helps us provide peer groups, workshops and one-to-one support – ensuring that no one has to face challenges alone. Please consider giving today to help us continue this important work.