Today is the winter solstice, the day with the fewest hours of daylight. After today days will start becoming longer and nights shorter as spring approaches.  

To support our personal health and wellbeing it is important to get as much natural sunlight as possible, exercising regularly and managing stress levels. We would really encourage you to take time to get some fresh air, in daylight if possible; perhaps go for a walk and enjoy the lighter days. 

For information on Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD), please visit the NHS website.

You can also find out about SAD on the Royal Collage of Psychiatrists' website, including how its symptoms, such as low mood and lack of interest in life, are similar to those of depression, but occur in the winter.

The Mind website describes SAD as like "having your own portable black cloud".

If low mood in the winter is interfering with your day-to-day life, you are advised to seek medical advice.