Those polled will also seek comfort and reassurance by popping on cosy fluffy socks and slippers (19 percent), and enjoying the restorative powers of hot chocolate (20 percent).
They’ll also indulge in relaxing bubble baths (15 percent) and freshly baked cakes (17 percent) to see them through winter.
Box sets (15 percent), comfy PJ’s (19 percent), and log fires (11 percent) will also bring comfort during chillier times.
Psychologist Dr Meg Arroll, who is working with Healthspan Vitamin D, which commissioned the research, said: “Often small pleasures remind us of pleasant memories, and so act as a mental comfort blanket.
“Cosy socks and jumpers can be particularly soothing and joyous, because as young infants we relied on physical touch to bond with our primary caregivers.
“Finding relief from the constant “permacrisis” of the last few months and winter can be a particularly challenging time.
“Positive distractions, such as watching a favourite movie and spending time with loved ones, are both excellent ways of giving yourself a break from chronic, heightened stress.”
More than a third of adults (37 percent) admit they spend more time in a bad mood when winter has the nation fully in its grip.
Four in ten (40 percent) feel more lethargic in winter, and 31 percent do less exercise when it’s dark, wet, and windy out.
But on the positive side, 27 percent believe they get better sleep during the colder months than they do in summer.
The anticipation of the festive period (24 percent), and Christmas Day itself (29 percent), are what many love about the winter months – in addition to the changing colours of the seasons (27 percent).
Nearly a quarter (22 percent) love the cosy indulgence of winter, and 21 percent said they revel in comfort eating.
A huge 86 percent of respondents believe it’s important to look after their mental health during the gloomy winter months.
As a result, two in five (41 percent) feel they need to make more effort to do the things that make them happy, compared to the rest of the year.
This year in particular is going to put that theory to the test, as 58 percent think things like the rising cost of living will dent their mental fortitude.
But more than half (51 percent) admit to feeling “guilty” at least occasionally for taking time to look after their mental health or happiness, according to the OnePoll figures.
Dr Meg Arroll, speaking on behalf of Healthspan Vitamin D supplements, added: “This is really a crucial part of this whole conversation.
“Finding the balance between making sure you’re taking time for yourself, and meeting all your other commitments – from family to work – can be challenging.
“But as this survey shows, there is awareness that it’s even more important to look after yourself in the wintertime and during times of uncertainty.
“As the saying goes, you can’t pour from an empty cup. So even small amounts of winter respite will be beneficial for not only your own wellbeing, but for that of your loved ones also.”
