Winter can feel cold and isolating. It’s important to keep your spirits up and stay connected with family and friends. Here are ten ways to stay connected. 

• Gather virtually – Schedule regular video calls with family or friends. Eat dinner together, play a game or just talk. It helps to see people. Can't video chat? Schedule regular calls with friends or family.
• Go on a walk with someone. Bundle up if it’s cold or meet at the mall or check with your local schools to see if they allow indoor walking.
• Share coffee, a meal or dessert with someone.
• Find a support person and check in with each other. 
• Try these virtual activities you can do together with friends or family. Discuss it.
  • Take a virtual museum tour
  • Visit a national park
  • Listen to a concert –Google online concerts
  • Tour the International Space Station
  • Find an activity on Google Arts & Culture
• Check with your local library about a community book club.
• Call someone you haven’t talked to in a while.
• Check in on others who live alone or have recently lost someone.
• Volunteer with a local organization. You’ll feel better by helping others and you’ll meet other volunteers.
• Share recipes and cook together virtually

You’ll find that staying connected to others helps you feel better and improves your mental health.