While resting more is natural, it is still important to make time for the things that make us happy and to mix with other people, according to GP Gavin Francis.
“We’re very social animals, even the most solitary human being doesn’t live completely alone. We all depend on others.”
He suggests planning activities in advance, focusing on spending time with those who make you feel good, and activities which can boost your mood.
Doing this means you’re committed, and a low mood nearer the time won’t be able to stop you.
“You can then start planning in your diary to do more things with these people over winter,” he says.
Simple practical things to improve your mood, such as making sure you get a good night’s sleep, avoiding too much alcohol or late night parties and maintaining a healthy diet are also important, he says.
“These things are not rocket science, but they’re really fundamental to having a good, healthy circadian rhythm and a good healthy physiology through the winter.”