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Winter mental health and wellbeing

Good mental health and wellbeing is essential to living happy and healthy lives. Staying active, connecting with friends, family and neighbours, learning new skills, or offering your time to support others can help keep your mind healthy.

If you or someone you know is struggling this winter and beyond, support and advice is available.

No judgement, no pressure, whatever you are facing the Samaritans are there to listen. They are available 24 hours a day, 365 days a year, just call 116 123 from your phone or visit the Samaritans website.

The Bexley Crisis Café at 2a Devonshire Road, Bexleyheath, DA6 8DS, is a safe and friendly place for anyone over 18 when they are experiencing emotional and psychological distress. The cafe is open from 6pm to 10pm Monday to Sunday including Bank Holidays.

If you are experiencing a mental health crisis the Oxleas Crisis Line on 0800 330 8590 is a 24-hour telephone service for anyone living in Bexley.

Young people can access confidential support via an online mental wellbeing community on the Kooth website or Papyrus website.

Top tips for staying well

  • Stay warm - keep the rooms you occupy most heated (to at least 18°C/64°F if you can). Use layers of clothing, blankets and hot water bottles to stay warm indoors
  • Eat well - try to maintain a balanced diet and fit in fruit, vegetables and hot meals. Soups, stews, and casseroles are great options
  • Stay hydrated - remember to drink throughout the day. Aim for at least 6 to 8 glasses and include hot drinks to keep warm
  • Check your medication and get vaccinated - make sure you have enough of your regular medication. Ensure you get your flu jab (if you are eligible) and any other recommended vaccinations. Your local pharmacy is a great place to seek advice on winter illnesses and medication or visit our public health page
  • Keep moving - stay active to boost your immune system and improve circulation. Even light exercise like a walk can make a big difference to your physical and mental health
  • Prevent the spread of germs - winter is a time when illnesses spread quickly and easily. Remember to wash your hands frequently, cover your mouth when coughing or sneezing and let some fresh air in when you can
  • Protect your mental well-being - take care of your mental health by staying connected with family, friends and neighbours. You can seek support if you feel overwhelmed, organisations such as the Samaritans can help

Your Life, Your Choice Bexley

Your Life, Your Choice Bexley is an easy-to-use online platform that helps you find local services, support and social activities in the community - putting you in charge of living the life you want.

Whether you are looking for help, support, or ways to get involved socially, the platform offers a wide range of options across Bexley. With a quick search, you can find services tailored to your needs.

Councillor Melvin Seymour, Cabinet Member for Adult Social Care and Health, said:

Our goal is to give residents the ability to choose the care that allows them to live life on their own terms. Your Life Your Choice Bexley empowers residents to take control of their care and support, helping them lead healthy, fulfilling and independent lives."

Find out more about Your Life, Your Choice Bexley

Councillor Melvin Seymour

Cllr Melvin Seymour, Cabinet Member for Adults' Services & Health