Today is Blue Monday – apparently it’s the most depressing day of the year. This hot topic has been trending on twitter since the weekend, but is it factually correct?
According to the Mental Health Foundation;
‘Blue Monday is a PR stunt that was originally dreamed up to sell holidays. It is a myth, a false calculation based on things like the gloomy weather, post-Christmas debt, disappointment from not keeping new year’s resolutions, dissatisfaction about going back to work and general doom and gloom. Since then, it has become a rather tedious yearly PR event, often designed to promote things that are vaguely linked to improving our wellbeing, more often than not with a complete lack of evidence. No actual scientific studies have ever backed up any claims about Blue Monday.
So the good news?
There is no Blue Monday! Although the benefits of ‘Blue Monday’ is that it can identify mental health issues and conditions by raising awareness. Seeing references to this day plastered all over the media, we automatically take a minute to reflect and identify what condition our own mental wellbeing is in.
Are you feeling blue?
It’s obvious that with the ending of the festivities and the weather being chilly, naturally we can feel a little low. If you are someone who is aware of your mental wellbeing, you will recognise that if you have low feelings, these can come at anytime and not because it is nationally recognised in the media as the day to be depressed.
What can I do?
Looking after your own mental health should be a priority for each and everyone of us. Health is health and therefore we need to treat our mind the same as our body – with respect and understanding.
We’ve collated some top tips to help you increase your mental wellbeing;
- You could try and talk about your feelings to someone you know (friend or family)
- You could try to eat well, drink sensibly and increase your water intake
- If you are struggling, asking for help could be the best decision you’ve ever made
- Put your wellbeing as a priority – ensure you don’t overload yourself with high expectations and unrealistic goal-setting
- Take some time off social media
- Be mindful of how you speak to yourself – try to always speak in a positive and kind tone
- Mindfulness – you can learn how to do this via Apps or on YouTube
- Read a positive or motivational book
- Listen to some feel-good music
- Watch movies that bring happiness, laughter or nostalgia
- Get moving! Exercise has been scientifically proven to release serotonin (the happy chemical) to boost your mood
- Pencil in some self-care time in your diary (e.g. bubble baths, journaling, taking walks in nature, baking, getting creative, listening to podcasts)
If you feel you need support on thoughts and feelings you might be experiencing, you can read information and resources from Mind or contact your GP who may be able to refer you to a professional.
In summary, as today is not factually ‘Blue Monday’ we propose flicking the kettle on and turning it into a ‘Brew Monday’.
