Mental Health & Emotional Support for carers during the winter months

January 21st, 2026

For some carers, winter can be a challenging time. With shorter daylight hours, colder weather and a higher risk of seasonal illness, it can place extra strain on mental health and emotional wellbeing. 

The Carers Centre understands this and is here to support carers through the tougher winter months – not only for their own health, but also for the quality of care they provide.

During winter, it is quite possible you may experience one or some of the following:

• Increased loneliness and isolation
• Fatigue from disrupted routines
• Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) and low mood
• Reduced time for rest, exercise and social connection

These factors can contribute to anxiety, burnout and depression if not addressed.

How you can protect yourself as a carer in winter
As a carer, it is very natural to prioritise the wellbeing of others and overlook your own wellbeing. Small, consistent actions can make a significant difference during winter:

• Stick to a routine: Regular sleep, meals and breaks help stabilise mood and energy.
• Get daylight where possible: Even short walks outdoors can improve mental health.
• Stay connected: Regular contact with colleagues, friends or family reduces isolation.
• Set boundaries: Where possible, avoid excessive overtime and speak up when workloads feel unmanageable.
• Acknowledge stress early: Recognising signs of burnout allows you to seek help sooner.

How can the Carers Centre help you?
The Carers Centre in Tower Hamlets runs a full series of events and activities over the winter months, many specifically aimed at the Health and Wellbeing of Carers. Not only are these activities beneficial for your own health and wellbeing but they give you a reason to get out of the house and to socialise with other carers.

Regular activities include:

• Carers Book Club – every Monday morning at the Carers Centre
• Walking & Talking Group – every Monday lunchtime, meeting at the Carers Centre
• Garden Club – fortnightly on a Friday, at the Crossrail Canary Wharf Roof Garden
• Meditation – weekly meditation session for carers at Breathing Space in the London Buddhist Centre every Tuesday, with the opportunity to go out for lunch with other carers afterwards
• Restorative yoga – yoga sessions for carers arranged throughout the year, which take place at the Carers Centre.

View the full events and activities calendar here.

Emotional Support Available to Carers in the UK
Confidential emotional support is available 

• NHS Talking Therapies – Free mental health support via GP referral or self-referral.
• Samaritans (116 123) – 24/7 emotional support for anyone feeling overwhelmed.
• Carers UK – Advice, helplines and peer support for carers nationwide.

The Carers Centre is here to support carers over the winter
If you need support or advice, please contact us.

Call us: 020 7790 1765
Email: enquiries@ccth.org.uk
Visit us: 21 Brayford Square, London, E1 0SG