Devon Mind's mental health tips this Blue Monday
The third Monday of January is dubbed 'Blue Monday', said to be the most depressing day of the year.
The third Monday of January is dubbed 'Blue Monday', said to be the most depressing day of the year.
January can be a tough time of year because of the post-Christmas lull, the pressure of new year's resolutions or financial problems.
On this day, many charities take the opportunity to raise awareness of mental health.
Devon Mind has put together a short list of things you can do to help boost your mood, this Blue Monday:
Don’t put too much pressure on yourself to achieve
"If December is traditionally a time for reflection and celebration, then January is often a time for planning and goal-setting. But while the ethos behind new year’s resolutions is a positive one, it can be easy to put too much pressure on yourself to reach the goals you’ve set.
"Losing weight, giving up drinking, eating less chocolate — these are all common challenges which are the subject of many a resolution, but which can be tough to approach in January."
Try to take advantage of the limited daylight
"If it’s dark when you wake up and dark when you finish work, it’s not unusual for you to feel gloomy and ‘down’."
"Research conducted by The Weather Channel and YouGov found that 29% of people in the UK suffers from some degree of seasonal affective disorder (SAD) in the winter."
Stay as connected as possible to your loved ones
"One of the most common pieces of advice to be found during the pandemic, staying in touch with friends and family is another important step to preventing the ‘winter blues’ from emerging.
"This year especially, with mixing having been limited over Christmas, it’s important to stay connected."
There is help available from the following organisations
The Samaritans 24/7 freephone line (116 123)
Age UK (0800 678 1602)
Carers UK (0808 808 7777)
The Silver Line (0800 4 70 80 90)
Young Minds (text YM to 85258)