Stay Well in 2025
Mental health help & advice for the new year.
Stay Well 2025 is a kit of resources to support your mental health as we say goodbye to 2024 and hello to 2025. It offers practical advice, resources, and tips from members of the OMH alliance. Below, you’ll find everything you need to keep yourself well in January and beyond.
24/7 support from Mindline Somerset
Our team at Mindline Somerset are here to support you throughout the year, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.
Emotional support from Crisis Safe Space
Help & advice from our partners for 2025:
The start of a new year can be a challenging time for many of us. Ruminating on the past or feeling overwhelmed by the uncertainties of the future is a heavy weight to bear. If we are faced by regrets, money worries, and isolation, or feeling bleak about the year ahead, it can be hard on our mental wellbeing.
Open Mental Health is an alliance of organisations that can help you through the new year period and toward a brighter future. If you are struggling with your mental health or wellbeing, call Mindline Somerset locally on 01823 276892 or freephone 0800 138 1692. It doesn’t have to be an emergency or crisis. Whatever challenges you’re facing, we’re here to listen and help.
In the meantime, whether you’re feeling stressed, anxious, depressed or need someone to give you support, Stay Well 2025 has practical resources to help.
Health and Wellbeing: Staying Supported
Citizens Advice—Free advice on almost any topic
New Year can mean new possibilities but Citizens Advice Somerset knows that post-Christmas relationship issues or money and bills can be worrying or stressful.
If you need free and confidential advice about your rights and options, Citizens Advice Somerset can help. Their goal is to help everyone find a way forward no matter what problems they face.
So whoever you are, and whatever the problem advisers are on hand to give you a helping hand, by phone (0808 278 7842), via email or in-person.
Visit their website: https://citizensadvicesomerset.org.uk/
Mind in Somerset—Your local mental health charity
The start of a new year can be overwhelming. Whether you’re feeling stressed, anxious, or just need someone to listen, Mindline Somerset is here for you. Check out our resources below and don’t hesitate to reach out:
Visit their website: https://www.mindinsomerset.org.uk/
Second Step—Putting mental health first
Take good care as we head into a new year – Crisis Safe Space is here for anyone experiencing severe emotional distress. Open to over 18s living in Somerset, you can book a phone session or video call or call Mindline on 0800138 1692 .
Stepladder, Second Step’s men’s mental health project, is here to support, signpost and connect men all year round. Go to our website to find groups to connect with and a host of wellbeing resources to tap into.
Visit their website: https://www.second-step.co.uk/
SASP—Increasing health and happiness through physical activity
Staying active in winter is essential for both physical and mental wellbeing, no matter your age or ability. Whether you enjoy the benefit of the outdoors or the warmth of indoor activities, find something to help you move more in ways that suit you. Check out SASP’s Things To Do page for fresh ideas to keep you active or take a look at the Somerset Moves Activity Finder where you can find activities local to you.
Visit their website: https://www.sasp.co.uk/
Spark a Change—Building healthy, resilient communities
We all know volunteering helps others, but did you know it can boost your physical and mental wellbeing too? It’s a great way to meet new people, learn new skills, and make a difference to a cause that matters to you. From virtual to in-person roles, indoors or out, one-off or regular—there’s something for everyone. Whatever your age, location or interests, Spark a Change makes it easy to find an opportunity that’s right for you.
Visit their website: sparkachange.org.uk/volunteer-campaign to get started.
Somerset Council—For a healthy and caring county
Visit their website: https://www.somerset.gov.uk/
Nelson Trust—Making change possible
New Year, New You? The New Year can bring so much pressure for us to miraculously turn our lives around, however for many women throughout Somerset it isn’t a simple case of setting some New Years resolutions. We can support you to take it one step at a time. Our women’s centre can provide you with a safe and welcoming space to seek vital support to address the day to day complexities and challenges we might be experiencing such as substance misuse, debts, mental health, or family issues. We offer one to one key working to address ongoing issues, groups with other likeminded women and a safe place to talk.
Visit their website: https://www.nelsontrust.com/
Kickstart January with WATCH
As we step into the new year, WATCH has exciting activities to keep the spirit of community alive! This January, join the Pathways Project—a fantastic opportunity to connect and learn online with fellow members. Plus, don’t miss our Thursday Project, where you can enjoy face-to-face peer support and a hot meal to keep you warm during the winter days.
But that’s not all—there’s so much more to explore as we continue to foster connections and celebrate the power of togetherness in 2025. Ready to get involved? Reach out to info@watchproject.org.uk for more information and join us on this journey!
Visit their website: https://watchproject.org.uk/
Support for Families and Young People
Balsam Centre—Supporting healthy and happy lives
Lots of us struggle with the winter blues, and January can be a particularly challenging month. Things may seem rather flat once the festive season is over and the brighter days of spring are still a long way off. You might also have financial worries, feel anxious about returning to work, or under pressure to set unrealistic New Year’s resolutions. The Balsam Centre provides lots of opportunities to support your health and wellbeing, including advice and support if you’re finding things difficult.
Visit their website: https://www.balsamcentre.org.uk/
FUSE Performance—Creative projects to support health and wellbeing
Why not join in with one of our face to face activities sessions or download some of our links from the inside out arts project. The resources can be used at home or in a youth, community, education setting.
Minehead Eye—A host of activities and events for all ages
For more information on our events, visit: www.mineheadeye.co.uk.
Young Somerset—Putting young people first
At Young Somerset we understand that the new year can be a tough time for anybody. You can have the opportunity to access our youth groups designed by young people. Umbrella provides a safe space for 13-17 year olds to foster new relationships with peers and a trusted adult that are long lasting. We provide cooking, art, sport and other group activities that are chosen by the young people that access the group.
Visit their website:https://www.youngsomerset.org.uk/
2BU—LGBTQ+ youth support service where it’s OK 2BU
The start of the new year can be particularly tough for some LGBTQ+ people. If you’re a young LGBTQ+ person living in Somerset, you may find that being lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender or questioning your sexuality or gender identity can sometimes be difficult. 2BU provides a support network at difficult times if you are struggling, want some support or you just want to meet others like you.
Visit their website:https://www.2bu-somerset.co.uk/
SASP – We’ve Got This Wellbeing Support
SASP recognises the challenges over winter for young people and We’ve Got This is here to support you to feel more positive about yourself, through providing you with fun, safe and purposeful environments to feel more empowered about your mental health and your life in general.
For more information: www.sasp.co.uk/weve-got-this
Dealing with the Challenges of Food and Socialising
SWEDA—Supporting people affected by eating disorders
The pressure to diet and ‘get in shape’ in January can be especially challenging for people struggling with eating disorders. The weeks following the festive period can be a particularly stressful time of year if you have an eating disorder or difficulties with food, eating, or body image. Common difficulties include: feeling a pressure to follow a New Year diet, feeling worried about ‘making up’ for food eaten at Christmas, or feeling a push to take on rigorous New Year’s resolutions around exercise or strength-building. If you’re concerned about difficulties around food or body image in January, SWEDA has resources and services that can support you.
Visit their website: https://swedauk.org
Loneliness and Carers Support
Age UK Somerset—Changing how we age
Age UK Wellbeing Service offers a range of different elements – such as Walk and Talk, Wellbeing Friends and Friendly Phone Calls – to help individuals over 60 feel less lonely and always listened to and to improve their quality of life. If you or someone you know could benefit from talking to one of our friendly volunteers, click here to find out more.
Visit their website: https://www.ageuk.org.uk/somerset/
Love Community CIC
Farmerados is run by volunteers who understand agricultural life and know how tough it can be. We believe a friendly conversation can help farmers realise they’re not alone. Sharing a worrisome load really takes some weight off. Discover more about our inviting pop-up farmhouse kitchens—welcoming spaces at agricultural markets and events where you can enjoy a hot drink and a biscuit or three.
CCS Somerset—Inspiring and enabling positive change for Somerset
Somerset Carers service provides support for unpaid carers including information, advice and carers groups. New Year can bring extra challenges that can impact carers wellbeing and that of the person they are caring for. Our downloadable resources include a carers checklist with useful contacts. Our Somerset Carers support groups are also back in the New Year. From January 2nd our phone lines are open Monday to Friday 9am to 5pm. Call our FREEPHONE advice line: 0800 31 68 600 or 01823 331 222 or email us at carers@somersetrcc.org.uk.
Visit their website: https://somersetcarers.org/
Diversity Voice—A space to be who you are
Diversity Voice is here to help those who feel isolated to find a sense of connection. This year, we’re focusing on prevention to help people prepare for the often-tough post-Christmas period. Our work centres on diverse communities, with a particular focus on supporting neurodivergent individuals, the LGBTQIA+ community, people with disabilities (including invisible illnesses), and anyone feeling particularly alone. We’re here to give you space to be exactly who you are and to feel however you feel. You belong here, and you matter.
Help and Advice in Any Language
Visit their website: https://diversityvoice.org.uk/
Easy Read Guide to Good Mental health
Many people in Somerset have reading challenges. This might be due to learning disabilities, an unfamiliarity with English, dyslexia, low literacy, or other conditions that affect how people process information.
Access our Easy Read Guide to good mental health in Somerset here
Explore our Stay Well 2025 articles
Five Tips for Good Mental Health on New Year’s Eve
Peer Support, New Year’s Challenges, and Looking Ahead
Stay Well 2025: What is Seasonal Affective Disorder?
Self-help tips for good New Year mental health
Say No to New Year’s Resolutions:
New Year’s resolutions can often feel overwhelming, especially if they’re grand or unrealistic. Instead, focus on small, kind goals that prioritise self-care and connection. “If you want to set goals, make them gentle and achievable,” an Open Mental Health volunteer suggested. “For example, you might decide to meet a friend for coffee once a week or attend a local wellbeing group.”
Set boundaries:
Make agreements with family about what you’re comfortable with on New Year’s Eve. This way, you can opt out of events that cause you stress and avoid overcommitting yourself. Don’t feel pressured to attend every social gathering. It can be overwhelming. It’s okay to say no to protect your mental health.
Plan some quiet time:
Allow yourself time to rest and recharge. Setting aside some “me time” can help you stay balanced and well.
Connect with supportive people:
Spend time with those who make you feel good; avoid those who create stress.
Cut back on the scrolling:
Limit your social media exposure; we often compare our holiday to others’ and think unhappy thoughts. Limiting time on social media can help reduce this pressure.
For more self-help tips, see our blog article: Stay Well 2025: Five Tips for Good Mental Health on New Year’s Eve
Find your calm in 2025
Introducing the Somerset January Wellbeing Calendar
To help you smooth out the ups and downs of the new year, Somerset Council, Our Somerset and OMH Expert by Experience Leaders, have created a wellbeing calendar—a resource to support your mental health with daily self-care tips and simple actions to make the coming year a little easier on the mind.
Supportive NHS resources
NHS Somerset Winter Plan
The NHS Winter campaign provides advice and guidance on how to manage your health, gives practical tips on keeping your home warm and safe and details where you can access support in the community. Follow this link to find out more information on how to keep yourself well over winter.
NHS Talking Therapies
Help for anxiety and depression
Somerset NHS Foundation Trust’s Talking Therapies service offers many different short term, time-limited treatments for anxiety and depression. These treatments are available both individually and in groups, by telephone and video for your greater convenience, and in person at venues too.
The service can also support you to cope better if you have experienced a traumatic event, or if you are struggling to live with a long term physical health condition such as diabetes, heart failure or breathing difficulties.
Visit the website and use the self-referral links on the page to access assessment and support. You’ll be offered a prompt assessment session with an experienced clinician, usually on the phone, to look at what’s troubling you and how the service can offer the most effective support.
https://www.somersetft.nhs.uk/somerset-talking-therapies/
How to get support:
Mindline Somerset
Our team at Mindline Somerset are here to support you throughout the year, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.
If you need someone to talk to about how you’re feeling or want advice about local services that offer help and support, call locally on 01823 276892 or freephone 0800 138 1692.
Get Urgent Help
Crisis Safe Space is an out-of-hours service provided by our partners, Mind in Somerset and Second Step, for anyone who feels like they are really struggling with their mental health. If you feel your life is at risk right now due to suicidal thoughts or you have seriously harmed yourself, you need to get urgent medical help. Please call 999 for an ambulance or go straight to A&E. If you can’t do this by yourself, ask someone to help you.
Helpful Websites for Adults
- Samaritans provides confidential, emotional support 24 hours a day, seven days a week, to those experiencing despair, distress, or suicidal feelings. Tel: 116 123 Email: jo@samaritans.org
- Anxiety UK provides support if you have been diagnosed with an anxiety condition.
- Beat supports people who are going through difficult times with eating disorders
- Bipolar UK helping people living with manic depression or bipolar disorder.
- CALM is the Campaign Against Living Miserably and provides support to men aged 15 to 35
- No Panic offers support for sufferers of panic attacks and obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD). Offers a course to help overcome your phobia or OCD.
- Papyrus is the young suicide prevention charity. HOPELINEUK: 0800 068 4141
- Sane provides emotional support, information and guidance for people affected by mental illness, their families and carers. SANEline: 0300 304 7000
- Shout is led by trained volunteers who can help you in a moment of chaos/crisis to find calm. Free text 24/7 on 85258.
- YoungMinds provides information for parents on child and adolescent mental health. Parents’ helpline 0808 802 5544
- Womens Aid – Women’s Aid is the national charity working to end domestic abuse against women and children.
- National Domestic Abuse Helpline – 0808 2000 247 (run by Refuge)
- ManKind – For Male Victims of Domestic Abuse. Freephone 0808 800 1170
- Somerset Drug and Alcohol Service – Free, confidential, and non-judgemental support. Call 24/7 on 0300 303 8788
Help for Young People (U18)
- Young Somerset – wellbeing support including virtual hubs and counselling.
- Papyrus is a national charity dedicated to the prevention of young suicide. They provide confidential support and advice to young people struggling with thoughts of suicide, and anyone worried about a young person through their helpline, HOPELINEUK.
- Young Minds Crisis Messenger text service provides free, 24/7 crisis support across the UK. If you are experiencing a mental health crisis and need support, you can text YM to 85258.
- Kooth is a confidential online mental health service where young people and adults can receive counselling, advice and support for their emotional well-being.