Looking After Yourself While You Care for Others This Winter
Hello! Winter can be tough, especially when you’re caring for someone and the days are cold and short. It’s easy to forget about your own wellbeing, but you matter too. Here are some gentle, down-to-earth tips to help you stay well and keep your spirits up through the chilly months.
Keep Cosy and Safe
- Try to keep your home warm - aim for at least 18°C, or a bit warmer if you’re older or not feeling well.
- Layer up with comfy clothes and snuggle under blankets.
- If heating bills are worrying you, talk to your local council or charities - they’re there to help you.
Feed Your Body
- Warm, hearty meals like soups and stews are great for keeping your energy up.
- Seasonal veggies are tasty and good for you, too.
- Remember to drink water - heating can make you feel dehydrated.
- If you’re struggling to get enough healthy food, reach out to your local carers’ support service. They know about food banks, community groceries, and warm spaces that could help.
Take Care of Your Mind
- Winter can sometimes feel lonely or a bit gloomy
- Stay in touch with friends, family, or support groups - even a quick chat on the phone or online can lift your mood.
- Make time for things you enjoy, like reading, crafts, or music, even if it’s just for a little while each week.
- If you can, get outside for a walk or just spend time by a window to soak up some daylight, especially in the mornings—it really helps your sleep and mood.
Be Ready for Surprises
- It’s good to have a plan for emergencies, like bad weather or illness.
- Keep important phone numbers handy and make sure you can get your medication and essentials.
- If possible, ask a friend or neighbour if they could step in if you need backup.
Reach Out for Support
- You’re not alone. Local carer organisations, charities, and your GP are there to help.
- Some offer special winter support, like wellbeing check-ins or respite care, so you can take a well-deserved break.
Top Tip! Remember to register with your GP as a carer!' Download the GP registration form here
Move a Little, Rest a Little
- Gentle exercise, like stretching or a short walk, can boost your mood and help your circulation.
- Try to get some fresh air and daylight when you can.
- Sleep is important, though it’s not always easy for carers. If you can, stick to a regular bedtime and get some daylight when you wake up.
- The NHS and UK government suggest everyone thinks about taking vitamin D supplements in winter, since we get less sunlight.
Mix Things Up
- Why not try something new to brighten your winter? A daylight lamp can help with low mood and tiredness.
- Gentle yoga, tai chi, or even laughter yoga can be fun and uplifting indoors.
- You could make a ‘wellbeing jar’ with little activities written on slips of paper—pick one out when you need a boost.
- Explore virtual museum tours or online workshops for a change of scene.
- Creative hobbies like crafting, journalling, or learning something new can be really rewarding.
Remember: Being an unpaid carer is so important, and your wellbeing matters. Little steps to look after yourself can make a big difference. Don’t be afraid to ask for help—it’s a sign of strength, not weakness. You’ve got this!
Meet Julie, Ken and Stacey (left to right) from Teesside Mind's Wellbeing Team
To find out more about carer support at Teesside Mind visit Carer Support
