From standard.co.uk
The excitement of Christmas has come to an end, and we’ve all returned to our routines, with sunnier days still feeling so far away.
It’s no wonder that January can feel particularly tough, particularly because it’s the month with "Blue Monday”, falling on January 20 this year.
But what if you don’t want to be overwhelmed by a wave of sadness in the coming weeks?
Follow our tips to help you beat those January blues and lift your spirits.
What is Blue Monday?
The term "Blue Monday" was coined by a UK travel company, Sky Travel, as a marketing ploy to encourage people to book holidays for something to look forward to. They first introduced the concept in a press release in 2005, using it as a strategy to help people beat the winter blues by planning a getaway later in the year.
Sky Travel labelled Blue Monday as the "most depressing day of the year," as it often coincides with financial struggles, less-than-ideal weather, and the failure of New Year’s resolutions — leading to a collective low mood. Blue Monday typically falls on the third Monday of January each year, though it has occasionally landed on the second or fourth Monday instead.
How to beat Blue Monday
The darker winter months can often coincide with struggles from seasonal affective disorder (SAD), a condition linked to changes in seasons. If you find yourself feeling more down in January, there are several ways to lift your spirits and combat the "Blue Monday" blues.
Various treatments are available for SAD, including cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT), antidepressants, and light therapy. The NHS advises making sure you are getting enough sleep, and adequate exposure to sunlight during the day. It recommends maximising natural light by keeping your work and home environments bright and airy, and positioning yourself near windows and doors whenever you are indoors.
Regular exercise is particularly important, especially when done outdoors and in daylight, as it can significantly improve your mood. Additionally, maintaining a healthy and balanced diet can help boost your immune system during the winter months, keeping you from falling ill.
Psychologist Marina Pacini suggests that aside from physical activities, there are mental and emotional strategies that can help alleviate feelings of sadness. She explains on the OpenUp mental health website: “New Year is often associated with many expectations. While meaningful resolutions can provide guidance, it’s important to focus on the process and daily progress, rather than just the final outcome.”
“The holidays are generally a joyful time we look forward to, but once they’re over, it can feel like a sudden shift back to normal,” she adds. In addition to maintaining a healthy lifestyle, she recommends making sure to socialise with friends and family, and most importantly, being kind to yourself.
Ms Pacini also suggests taking up new habits, such as keeping a diary or meditation, to help create moments of reflection and mindfulness. Remember: the journey is as important as the destination.
https://www.standard.co.uk/news/uk/blue-monday-most-depressing-day-b1204772.html
