Winter Wellness: Mental Health Awareness & Support
Purpose
To raise awareness of mental health challenges that can increase during the winter months and encourage employees to look out for themselves and one another — just as we do with physical safety.
Winter can be a challenging time for many people. Shorter days, colder weather, and the pressures of work, health, and family life can all take a toll on our mental and emotional well-being. Just like physical safety, mental health is an important part of staying healthy, focused, and supported — both at work and at home.
It’s okay to not feel okay. What matters most is knowing when to reach out and where to find help.
Why It Matters
Safety isn’t just physical — mental health plays a critical role in focus, decision-making, and overall well-being. During the winter months, shorter days, cold weather, increased stress, and limited outdoor activity can negatively impact mental health. For some people, this can lead to increased feelings of stress, anxiety, isolation, or depression.
Unchecked mental health challenges can affect:
- Concentration and reaction time
- Decision-making and judgment
- Energy levels and motivation
- Workplace safety and performance
Recognizing concerns early helps prevent accidents, injuries, and long-term health issues.
Common Winter Mental Health Challenges
- Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD): Mood changes linked to reduced sunlight
- Increased stress: Holidays, finances, and year-end pressures
- Isolation: Less social interaction and outdoor activity
- Fatigue: Disrupted sleep patterns and low energy
Warning Signs
In yourself or others:
- Ongoing sadness, irritability, or mood changes
- Withdrawal from coworkers or activities
- Difficulty concentrating or making decisions
- Changes in sleep, appetite, or energy
- Increased frustration or emotional reactions
Support Is Available — 24/7
If you or a family member are dealing with stress, anxiety, medical concerns, financial worries, legal questions, or personal challenges, help is available through our Employee Assistance Program (EAP) provided by UnitedHealthcare at no extra cost to you.
The UnitedHealthcare Member Assistance Program (MAP) offers confidential support 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, including:
- Unlimited phone access to master’s-level specialists, available 24/7
- Up to three referrals for face-to-face counseling sessions with licensed clinicians (from a national network of 144,000+ providers)
- One 30-minute legal consultation, by phone or in person, with discounted rates for ongoing services
- A 30–60 minute financial consultation with credentialed financial professionals to discuss budgeting, estate planning, taxes, and more
- Online resources at liveandworkwell.com, where you can find providers, explore work-life resources, read articles, and access expert guidance from your phone or computer
Your privacy matters. All services are completely confidential and protected in accordance with federal and state laws.
What You Can Do
Take Care of Yourself
- Get regular sleep and maintain a routine
- Stay active — even light movement helps
- Eat well and stay hydrated
- Spend time outdoors when possible, especially during daylight
- Talk to someone you trust if you’re feeling overwhelmed
Look Out for Each Other
- Check in on coworkers — a simple “How are you doing?” matters
- Be patient and supportive
- Encourage seeking help when needed
Ask for Help
- Reach out to your supervisor, HR, or trusted resources
- Use available benefits such as EAP or wellness programs
- Remember: asking for help is a sign of strength, not weakness
If You or Someone Else Is in Crisis
UnitedHealthcare Member Assistance Program (MAP):
📞 1-877-660-3806 | TTY 711
🌐 liveandworkwell.com
- If you are ever in immediate danger or experiencing a mental health crisis, please call 911 or contact the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline by calling or texting 988.
Key Takeaways
- Taking care of your mental health is just as important as taking care of your physical health. Asking for help is a sign of strength, and support is always within reach.
- We encourage everyone to take advantage of the resources available and to look out for one another — especially during the winter months.
You are not alone. Support is available — and your well-being matters.