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Definitely! I really miss the long days and warm nights of summer, the sunshine makes such a difference. When it gets darker earlier, I do feel it in my mood. But weirdly, my motivation for the gym actually improves! I find myself going more often and training harder through winter.
I think it's huge, but it can still be really hard for men to open up. I've been told before that things "shouldn't affect me as much as they do," and I think a lot of men feel that pressure – that we're just expected to deal with things on our own. But we shouldn't. Talking helps!
Not too much, but sometimes food can be a bit trickier, heavier winter meals can affect output or cause leaks. I'm getting better at managing it though, and knowing what to avoid.
Confidence is a big one for me. I feel more confident in summer clothes, so when I'm wrapped up in winter gear I just don't feel as good. I also find being indoors more can make me restless, so I try to get out whenever I can, even just for a short walk on a dry, cold day.
The everyday things really help. Watching my favourite show, cooking something warm and comforting, or hitting the gym – that's a big one for me. Training clears my head, keeps me focused on my goals and helps me stay positive.
100%! Speaking to friends or family makes a huge difference. Even just checking in with someone for a quick chat helps. It's easy to think you're alone in how you feel, but most of the time, someone else gets it too.
To the guys who've been told to "man up" – ignore it. Turn it around and speak up. There's absolutely no shame in struggling. The people around you love you and want to help. Be part of the change and show that strength is in honesty, not silence.
Take it slow. Set boundaries for yourself and don't feel pressured to say yes to everything. Socialising can be tiring, so do what feels right for you. Remember, summer's not that far away! Try to enjoy what winter brings too: get outside, visit family and friends, and make the most of the festivities.
Thank you to Ed for sharing such an open and honest insight into how he looks after his mental health through the winter months. Everyone's experience is different, but his message is a simple one: you are not alone, and talking about how you feel can make a real difference. For more stories from people living with a stoma, visit our Experts & Community Voices section. If winter food is on your mind too, our stoma diet guide offers practical tips for eating well with a stoma.
Many people notice changes in mood, energy and motivation when the days get shorter and darker. For some, this goes beyond a passing dip. Seasonal affective disorder (SAD) is a type of depression that follows a seasonal pattern, usually returning in the colder months. If low mood is lasting or affecting your daily life, please speak to your GP.
Some people find that heavier winter meals change their output or lead to leaks, as Ed describes. Everyone reacts differently, so try new or richer foods gradually and in small amounts, and notice how your body responds. Your stoma care nurse can offer advice tailored to you.
Ed finds that simple everyday routines help: spending time outdoors on a dry day, exercise, cooking something comforting and keeping in touch with friends and family. What helps differs from person to person, so it can be worth trying a few small things and seeing what works for you.
A quick check-in can mean a lot. Listen without judgement, let them talk at their own pace and avoid pushing them to "just cheer up". You can encourage them to speak to their GP if their low mood continues.
Speak to your GP if you have felt low for more than a couple of weeks, if it is getting worse, or if it is affecting your sleep, work or relationships. If you are in crisis or thinking about harming yourself, call Samaritans free on 116 123 (24 hours a day) or 999 in an emergency.
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