Staying healthy and well this Winter
This time of year can take an increasing toll on people’s health, with Covid-19 still very much in the news, winter illnesses such as the flu, financial pressures, isolation and other issues all putting pressure onto our mental health. We have compiled support and information resources to help everyone in Windsor, Ascot and Maidenhead stay safe and well this winter.
Dealing with Covid-19
This winter is particularly challenging for the health services with the ongoing issue of Covid-19 putting pressure on services, alongside all the usual winter pressures that come every year. It is up to all of us to play our part in preventing the spread of Covid-19. For the latest national information and guidance check out the NHS and Government websites:
https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/coronavirus-covid-19/
https://www.gov.uk/coronavirus
If you or someone you know has caught Covid-19, there is a new NHS health website to support through the recovery time, offering advice and information: www.yourcovidrecovery.nhs.uk
Advice for the clinically vulnerable:
Advice on visiting care homes
We have also developed a Mental Health Support Advice and Information page linking to help and support resources.
Looking after your physical health this Winter
The cold weather and being stuck at home can play havoc with our physical health so it’s important to take steps to stay active and healthy this winter. Here are some national resources to help you stay physically healthy this winter:
- The One You website has a lot of advice and ideas for healthy meals you can cook at home.
- Public Health England has provided some free, easy 10-minute workouts for exercises you can do in your own home.
- You can also try the exercise suggestions on the NHS Fitness Studio, and have a look at Sport England for some ideas for keeping active at home.
For the latest news on the coronavirus vaccine roll out visit this site: https://www.gov.uk/coronavirus
As well as exercise, it’s important to be aware of any health issues that you might have. While there is much in the news about the pressures on the health service it is very important that you continue to get advice and help if you do have any health concerns.
We have developed advice and resources about continuing to access the NHS during the pandemic.
Looking after your mental health this Winter
The pandemic has increased the mental health pressures on many people this year but there are many places to seek support and advice if you are worried about your own, or someone else’s mental health this winter.
Coping with loneliness and isolation
The winter season can be particularly challenging for those living alone, but this year that is compounded by the pandemic, with many more people shielding due to being clinically vulnerable or simply too fearful to be with other people. Isolation and loneliness can have a real impact on mental health, as well as physical health, for those who are unable to leave home.
During the pandemic it is possible to set up a support bubble to help with the problems which isolation can bring: https://www.gov.uk/guidance/making-a-support-bubble-with-another-household
There are also many resources, help and support available here.
Staying safe and well over the Winter months
For many people, simply having enough food to eat, and staying warm due to the heating costs, pose big challenges at this time of year. If you or anyone you know is having issues around staying safe and well this Winter, then please do seek help.
You can find links to helpful resources on our staying safe and well page here.
Coping with family pressures
With families under increasing pressure this year with job losses, money stresses and not being able to spend time with one another or being stuck at home together 24 hours a day, it can be a very stressful time of year. If pressures become too much and you or anyone you know are struggling with family problems, there is advice and guidance on our coping with family pressure page.
