Coping with Blue Monday
Have you ever come across the term Blue Monday or felt the weight of January blues or depression? Let's start by unraveling the mystery of Blue Monday. Coined in a 2005 press release by a UK travel company, this term refers to the most depressing day of the year. While its scientific validity is debatable, various factors contribute to the feeling of melancholy during January.
This gloomy day falls on the third Monday of January each year, with the upcoming Blue Monday for 2024 falling on January 15th.
While Blue Monday itself may be controversial, January often brings a sense of gloom. Sometimes this can be the aftermath of ambitious new year's resolutions, the impact of dieting, financial stress post-holidays, and the dreary weather and short days.
How to cope with Blue Monday
Go easy on yourself
Explore the importance of setting realistic goals and avoiding unnecessary pressure. Reflect on how to make positive changes without negatively impacting your mental health.
Take breaks, understand the significance of leisure and play in managing mental health. Embrace breaks and engage in activities that bring joy and relaxation.
Spend more time outside, even just a 10 minute walk on a gloomy winters day can help re-set how we are feeling.
Discover the positive impact of nature on mental health and explore ways to connect with the outdoors, whether through a simple walk or a weekend hike.
Reduce screen time, acknowledge the adverse effects of excessive screen time on mental health. Learn to disconnect and allocate time for more enriching activities.
Prioritise self-care, recognise the importance of self-care in maintaining overall wellbeing.
Embrace activities that bring happiness and relaxation to counter stress and anxiety.
Do something creative, tap into the benefits of creativity for improved emotional well-being. Consider engaging in creative outlets, whether it's starting a new project or exploring new hobbies.
Share your thoughts and feelings with a friend and return the favour. Being connected and having social moments is an important way to deal with times that we may feel flat.
Whatever your approach to the day try to accept your feelings but not over identify with them, if you find you’re telling yourself a negative story, imagine setting it aside and try to focus on the present and finding ways to accept the moment.