I’m Sadie, 24, from London, and I am incredibly passionate about people and how we can create a kinder world simply by being ourselves. For me, it all starts with noticing.
Winter has a way of bringing certain feelings closer to the surface. Even when we are surrounded by others, the season can make us feel a little more alone, a little more aware of what we are carrying. I have always noticed the quieter changes in people at this time of year, and it reminds me how much connection really matters in these moments. Here, I want to share a few different ways to show up for the people you love this winter, so the season feels a little more gentle for all of us.
The Art of Noticing
Something I feel is incredibly underrated, yet so valuable, is the art of noticing and paying attention to the people around us. People do not always say when they are struggling, especially at this time of year when there is pressure to be cheerful, social or “in the spirit.” Often, the signs that someone needs support are much quieter. Additionally, people may not even know how they are feeling themselves, and sometimes it only takes one person noticing to help them reflect on what they may be needing.
Examples of this might include a friend replying more slowly than usual, cancelling plans they were once excited about, or seeming less present in conversations. It could also be someone who appears perfectly fine on the surface but feels slightly “off” in a way you cannot quite describe.
These small shifts are easy to overlook when life feels busy, but noticing them can make a huge difference. It lets your friend know you see them, and that you care enough to check in. You do not need to have the perfect words or a plan to make things better. Simply acknowledging that you have noticed a change can help someone feel less alone and less pressured to pretend everything is okay.
How to check in
Checking in with someone sounds simple, but the way you do it can make all the difference. Many of us fall into the habit of saying “Let me know if you need anything,” which is kind, but there are certainly other ways to help someone open up more. When a person feels low, overwhelmed or disconnected, reaching out for help can feel impossible.
Perhaps asking, “I’ve noticed you seem a bit quieter than usual, i just want to check are you okay?” or “I’m around tonight if you want to talk or hang out this evening” It is specific enough that the person feels invited in, but gentle enough that they do not feel pushed.
It also helps to check in without expecting a perfect answer. Not everyone knows how to express what they are feeling, and sometimes people do not realise how much they needed someone to ask. The goal is not to solve anything in that moment, but to let your friend know that you are present and deeply care.
Real check-ins remind people that they matter. They create a small pocket of safety where someone can be honest, even if they do not have the words yet. And sometimes that is all someone needs to feel a little less alone.
Spend time together in simple, gentle ways
Spending time with someone does not always have to involve big party plans or intense conversations. In winter especially, simple, low pressure moments can be the most comforting and intimate. Sometimes just being in the same room as someone you trust can ease feelings of loneliness far more than any planned activity.
This could look like inviting a friend over to watch a film, going for a short walk together, grabbing a hot drink after a long day, or even sitting in comfortable silence while you both get on with your own things. These small moments can create a sense of togetherness without overwhelming either person.
It also helps to offer options that feel manageable. Winter can make socialising feel harder for some people, and a gentle invitation removes the pressure to “perform” or pretend everything is fine. Saying something like, “If you want company while you do your errands, I can come with you,” or “I’m making dinner, do you want to FaceTime with me for a bit?” can feel grounding and safe.
Quality time does not have to be intense to be meaningful. Sometimes the act of simply showing up and being present is enough to remind someone they are cared for.
This article is part of our 2025 Winter Campaign: Keeping In Touch - a campaign led by ten ten creative young people aged 18–25, each sharing their own winter survival tips to help you get through the season feeling connected.
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