Why can we feel lonelier during the winter?

It can be quite common to feel isolated during the winter months, this can be increased due to reduced opportunity to socialise due to the colder weather and the night’s drawing in earlier, making it more difficult and less appealing to get out and see others. At Reach and Connect we have found that several residents we support have shared not feeling as safe as they should to leave their homes after dark, often older people can feel more cautious and be worried about slips and falls, due to icy/wet surfaces and poor lighting.

As we go out less, we are also have decreased exposure to natural light which is believed to impact on emotional wellbeing and in more extreme cases lead to Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD): A common form of depression that's linked to the seasonal change. SAD can cause feelings of lethargy and low mood, which can result in someone withdrawing from company and social contact.

Studies highlighted by The Campaign to end Loneliness have also shown a correlation between our body temperature and emotional status, it has been discovered that when we're cold, our bodies instinctively strive for self-protection, which can lead to withdrawal and less interaction with others. Haringey Council provide a Brief Advice guide in regards to coping with and Staying safe in cold weather.

So, what do we need to consider doing to address feelings of increased loneliness during the winter?

The Marmalade Trust  who lead on our national Loneliness Awareness Week Campaign agree that staying warm and connected as well as getting out into the light during the day, when possible, is helpful but this can sometimes be easier said than done. Other tips when options are limited can be to try journaling, writing down your thoughts can help you process your emotions, distracting yourself with by reading or watch something, getting lost in a good book or film can help. Consider looking for volunteering opportunities, this can help by giving you the opportunity to regain routine, relationships, and purpose. 

If however, you're feelings of loneliness and low mood are causing you to struggle with sleep, become more anxious or stressed, anxiety, or stress, we would suggest that your reach out to your GP or local mental health professionals to find out support and resources that could be available to you.

If you feel that you would like to get out more and want to discuss options for how to do this and where you could go then do get in touch with our team of Community Connectors. We have an excellent knowledge of activities and groups in Haringey and can support people with mobility issues to get access to community transport as well as helping encourage those who might be lacking confidence to get out and participate in social groups.