Local mental health website highlights support for Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) and loneliness as days grow shorter.
A new campaign launches today to support the mental wellbeing of thousands of residents in Bradford District and Craven during the challenging winter months. The ‘You’re not alone’ winter initiative, led by the Bradford District and Craven Health and Care Partnership, provides practical help and direct access to local support for those affected by winter loneliness and Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD).
With shorter days and colder weather significantly impacting mood and energy levels for many, the campaign aims to reassure people that their feelings are common, and that seeking help is a positive step. It highlights the Healthy Minds website (www.healthyminds.services) as the easiest first step for anyone struggling to find mental health support.
“The drop in sunlight and temperature doesn’t just affect our physical health, it has a profound impact on our mental wellbeing,” said Dr Junaid Azam, GP and Clinical Lead for Bradford District and Craven Health and Care Partnership. “Many people feel more withdrawn, low, or fatigued at this time of year, but they often suffer in silence, thinking they should just ‘get on with it’. This campaign is a reminder that you are not alone in feeling this way, and that tailored, local support is just a few clicks away.”
“Individuals who are unable to connect digitally, can contact Guide-Line. Run by mental health charity Bradford District and Craven Mind, Guide-Line provides confidential, emotional support 365 days a year and they will also signpost you to the right service.”
Individuals can contact Guide-Line on 08001 884 884, from 8am to 12am or use the live chat online at www.mindbradford.org.uk/chat available from 8am to 12am.
The campaign will feature:
● Blogs on the Healthy Minds website (www.healthyminds.services/news): explaining SAD and offering simple, actionable steps to combat loneliness and how young people can look after their mental health
● Relatable video content: series of short videos created by the Healthy Minds apprentices, sharing their own authentic tips for staying well during winter
● Targeted support: the Healthy Minds Support finder, an online directory that allows users to confidentially search over 300 local services—from walking groups to counselling—filtered by their specific needs and location.
The Healthy Minds apprentices, a team of young people aged 16-24, who help to shape mental health services for children and young people in Bradford District and Craven, are central to making the campaign relatable.
“Winter can feel really isolating, especially when you believe others are managing,” said Zachary and Celina, two of the Healthy Minds apprentices. “We wanted to create content that feels like a friend giving you a nudge, not a lecture. Small things like your routine or finding a local group can make a huge difference, and we want to support other young people to take that first step.”
The campaign message is one of community and hope: however, if individuals are feeling lonely or sad this winter, support is available.