Winter Blues 2026: Simple Tips and Support to Get Through Winter
Published on: February 6, 2026
Key Takeaways
- Shorter days and reduced daylight can affect mood, but small, everyday habits can help support your well-being throughout the winter.
- Staying active, prioritizing natural light, maintaining social connections and scheduling moments of rest into your routine can make all the difference.
- Blue Cross Health® insurance includes services designed to provide extra support when you need it most.
How to feel better during the winter months
Once the holidays are over and daily routines resume, winter can start to feel heavier. Shorter days, colder temperatures and less daylight can affect both energy levels and mood. For many Canadians, this is when the winter blues begin to settle in.
If you’re feeling more tired, unmotivated or emotionally low, you’re not alone. Even those who are used to Canadian winters can find this season challenging. The good news is that with a few practical lifestyle adjustments and access to the right health support, it’s possible to feel more balanced throughout the winter months.
Why does winter affect our mood?
Why does feeling low seem more common in winter?
The winter blues are often linked to a drop in energy and mood caused by several factors, most notably reduced exposure to natural light and changes in sleep patterns and physical activity.
This experience is widespread. According to the Canadian Mental Health Association, nearly one in five Canadians report that lower light levels in winter affect their mood. For some, these changes are mild and short-lived. For others, they can feel more persistent. During these times, staying connected, paying attention to how you’re feeling and reaching out for support are simple but important steps that can truly make a difference.
Everyday ways to support your well-being
Small, consistent habits often have the greatest impact. During more demanding periods, what matters most is listening to yourself, respecting your pace and choosing what truly brings you comfort.
Keep moving at your own pace
Physical activity can naturally boost energy and mood, but it doesn’t have to be intense or structured. Gentle movement such as walking, stretching or spending time outdoors can help you feel more grounded and refreshed.
Make daylight a priority
Natural light plays a key role in how we feel. Going outside at lunchtime, working near a window or using a light therapy lamp can help you feel more alert. Even small increases in light exposure can help improve energy and mood.
Stay socially connected
Winter can make it tempting to withdraw, but staying connected is important. A phone call, a shared meal or a casual get-together can help reduce feelings of isolation and bring warmth to your routine.
Build in moments of comfort
Simple, enjoyable activities can help make winter feel more manageable. Reading, watching feel-good movies, enjoying creative activities or giving yourself permission to rest are small but meaningful ways to make winter feel gentler and even restorative.
Health and wellness support for the winter season
Healthy habits are an important foundation, but extra support can also play a key role, especially during more demanding periods. Blue Cross Health® insurance is designed to support your physical and mental well-being throughout the winter and beyond.
Along with coverage for routine health care, like visits with health professionals, dental services and prescription medications, Complete Health includes programs and services that help you take care your overall well-being:
- inConfidence®: This confidential program offers support by phone, online or in person. You may access up to 5 hours of individual counselling, up to 5 hours of couples counselling and up to 5 hours of personal support related to health, personal life or career concerns.
- Connected Care: Personalized digital services to help guide you toward the right resources, when you need them:
- Health Connected: a self-assessment tool and a library of practical resources to help navigate everyday challenges
- Online Doctors: up to 4 virtual medical consultations per year
- Petit BamBou: a meditation and mindfulness app, with 3 months of free access
- Online Physiotherapy: access to preferential rates
- Blue Advantage®: Enjoy exclusive discounts on a wide range of health, fitness and wellness products and services making it easier to maintain healthy habits year-round.
Getting Through Winter with the Right Support
Everyone experiences the winter blues differently. By paying attention to your needs, adopting supportive habits and accessing the right resources, it becomes easier to move through the season feeling more grounded and supported.
And because well-being is something you nurture all year long, you can count on Blue Cross Health® to support you season after season.
Source
Canadian Red Cross (2020)—5 Tips to Fight Seasonal Depression (2020). Findings from the Canadian Mental Health Association