A health expert has shared some tips to maintain your wellbeing during the ‘most depressing day of the year’.
Blue Monday, which falls on the third Monday of January, is said to trigger a mental health slump. This year, Blue Monday falls tomorrow (January 20) and many of us may start to feel a dip in our spirits.
While there’s no scientific proof that mood universally drops on the third Monday of the month, it’s known that winter can be a challenging time for many. This could be due to various factors. The cheer of Christmas is now long over, but the financial impact of the festive season can linger long into January, affecting our state of mind.
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With short days and cold weather, most of us are not getting as much sunlight as we would like, which can impact mood.
The effects of the January slump are evident on social media, where users have expressed their emotional struggles during this period. “I just remembered Monday is Blue Monday. Yikes,” one user posted on X. “I think it’s gonna be even bluer than other years.”
But according to Will Burse, recovery health expert and Chief Executive Officer at True Self Recovery, there are strategies we can implement to fight off the winter blues. “The ‘January Blues’ can be challenging for many, but it’s important to remember that these feelings are temporary,” he remarked.
“It’s okay to have difficult days, but by recognising these feelings, implementing these strategies, and staying committed to your well-being, you can not only survive but thrive during this period.”
Burse then shared six techniques everyone could adopt around Blue Monday to mitigate those negative emotions, starting with getting enough sleep. While adults are recommended to get between seven and nine hours of sleep a night, falling asleep may be challenging.
To help facilitate better sleep, Burse suggests avoiding screen time for one to two hours before bedtime and engaging in tranquil activities like taking a warm bath for a more serene night.
Furthermore, Burse emphasised the importance of physical activity which can increase endorphins naturally. Whether it’s a gentle 10-minute yoga session or a brisk walk outside, any movement can greatly enhance our mental health.
Burse also highlighted how crucial good nutrition is for mental wellness, explaining that as we get older, the benefits on our mental state become even more significant. Consuming regular, balanced meals helps maintain steady blood sugar levels, aiding in mood stability.
While living life on a whim might be fun, incorporating routine into your daily life is vital for good mental wellbeing, according to Burse. Creating a schedule and sticking to it for things like meal times, physical activity, and sleep can significantly improve your mood.
Burse also suggests pampering ourselves and recognising small victories, particularly when times are tough, by indulging in things like a meal at our go-to restaurant, enjoying a movie, or treating ourselves to something nice. And lastly, Burse stresses the importance of looking to the future, saying: “Visualising the life you want to lead or areas you wish to improve can provide direction and hope,” he said.
“Remember, significant positive changes can occur in less than a year, and having clear goals can help guide your life.”