As the festive lights dim and the new year sets in, a significant majority of Britons are grappling with a profound seasonal slump. According to a new nationwide study commissioned by MSC Cruises, a striking 69% of UK adults report currently suffering from the winter blues.
The Grim Reality of a British January
The survey of 2,000 people paints a clear picture of what makes the first month of the year so challenging for the nation. Topping the list of grievances is the freezing weather, cited by 54% of respondents. This is closely followed by the seemingly endless stretch of long, dark nights, a problem for 37%.
For many, the joy of Christmas has faded into a distant memory, a sentiment shared by 29% of those polled. Adding to the collective malaise is a widespread lack of motivation, affecting 24% of Brits. The data suggests this winter feels particularly harsh, with 38% stating it feels even more depressing than the previous year.
Sweet Treats and Sunny Escapes: The Nation's Favourite Pick-Me-Ups
Despite the gloom, the research also uncovered a treasure trove of strategies Brits use to lift their spirits. Almost half of the population (49%) actively employ a list of tactics to stay upbeat. The nation's number one remedy is deliciously simple: eating a whole bar of chocolate alone, a tactic for 47% of people seeking a mood boost.
Other popular methods include turning up the heating and getting cosy indoors (41%) and the powerful act of booking a sunny holiday to dream about (41%). Embracing the outdoors also features, with a third (33%) of people saying a brisk winter walk while wrapped up warm helps improve their mood.
The list reveals a strong preference for simple, comforting pleasures. These range from pulling on a pair of cosy socks (29%) and ordering a favourite takeaway (24%) to binge-watching a beloved comedy series (23%) or rewatching a favourite film (21%). Homely joys like cuddling a pet dog, making a luxurious hot chocolate, or enjoying hot buttered crumpets also rank highly.
Innovation and the Quest for Winter Sun
The longing for sunlight is a powerful theme, with 56% of Brits admitting they love a bit of winter sun and 19% stating that having a sunny holiday to anticipate is a key help. In response to this craving, MSC Cruises is trialling an innovative 'Sunbrella'. This cutting-edge device incorporates Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) lamp technology, designed to provide a warm glow and a serotonin lift on gloomy days.
Antonio Paradiso, VP of International Sales at MSC Cruises, commented on the findings: "Our research shows just how much people are longing for sunshine this winter. The Sunbrella is a playful and eye-catching way to bring that feeling to life, but nothing compares to the real thing."
The company is promoting winter sun getaways, with offers such as a Caribbean cruise from £449 per person departing on 2nd March 2026. The survey found that 20% of Brits joke weekly about moving abroad in January, and the ideal temperature for a winter escape was deemed to be a mild 23°C.
The full list of 25 popular remedies also includes activities like having a bubble bath, blasting out favourite songs, hitting the gym, and looking through old photographs, proving that from sweet indulgence to holiday planning, Brits are resourceful in their fight against the January chill.
