Five ways to stick it to winter

You know that proper-good feeling you get after doing something nice for a mate? Well, it’s actually backed by science that helping others can make you feel good. At CALM, we know this time of year can be crap, so we’re asking you to join us and Stick It To Winter.

Things tend to feel much harder when the sun’s not shining, so it’s no surprise that the shorter, colder, wetter days can leave us with the motivation of sloth.

It’s estimated that around 2 million people are affected by Seasonal Affective Disorder in the UK. Add to this the stuff going on in the world right now, and the winter blues can really drag you down.

Do something bold to beat the cold

Looking for ways to get through this last slog before spring? Do something to really Stick It To Winter. Here’s how:

• Choose a challenge – there’s loads of ace inspo below
• Set up a fundraising page and register your activity here.
• Tag us on social media and share your photos using the hashtag #StickItToWinter (the sillier the better). You might even make it into our hall of fame.

You don’t need to raise a lot of cash to support CALM – just £8 can help fund a potentially life-saving phone call. Stuck for ideas? Here’s some to get you started.

1. Cold water dip

It’s not for the faint hearted, but a cold water dip can Dip for some dosh – the hormones that make us feel good. And, as Stick It To Winter challenges go, there’s not much that says ‘stuff you winter’ than withstanding sub-zero waters.

Dip for some dosh

2. Step challenge

It’s tempting to stay glued to the sofa when it’s chilly outside, but getting some fresh air and soaking up the sunshine vitamin (vitamin D) can make a big difference to your mood. 10,000 steps a day can sound like a lot, especially if your job involves sitting down, so why not take on the challenge?

Get moving for some moolah!

3. Run with a twist

Getting active can help you feel more positive and less tired, so why not try a run with a twist. Take on a three legged race with a mate, do a marathon dressed as a moose, or run in the rain in your pants – get inventive with your Stick It To Winter challenge.

Run to raise some funds.

4. New hairdo

Brave the shave, dye your hair in CALM colours, or turn heads with a weird and wonderful hairdo. Whether you’ve always wanted to give Bob Ross’s famous perm a go, or you fancy knitting a jumper from your own hair, get creative with your lid. Whatever you do with your ‘do is up to you.

Chop your locks for CALM

5. Pick your own

Find your own way to Stick It To Winter! Host your own karaoke night, take on the Guiness World Record for pinky pull-ups, or livestream your own hot dog eating contest – the sillier the challenge the better, after all, a good belly laugh can do a lot for our mental wellbeing, helping us release tension, increasing those feel-good hormones and even reducing stress.

D.I.Y challenge

However you’re planning to #StickItToWinter, register what you’re doing here and don’t forget to share photos of your challenges so that we can cheer you on. Don’t fancy thinking up your own fundraiser? Head to our events page for other ways to get involved.

If you’re finding winter tough, CALM is here, no matter what. Our helpline and webchat services are free, confidential and open every day from 5pm until midnight. Head here to find support.