As the days get shorter and the temperature drops, many of us find ourselves feeling a little less energised and a little more down.
And then, seemingly out of nowhere, Blue Monday rolls around, exacerbating those feelings of sadness and lethargy. But what exactly is Blue Monday, and why does it have such a hold on us?
Where does Blue Monday come from?
Blue Monday, typically observed on the third Monday of January, is often dubbed the most depressing day of the year. It was first coined by psychologist Cliff Arnall in 2005, who used a combination of factors such as weather conditions, debt levels, time since Christmas, and motivation levels to determine the date. While some argue that the formula behind Blue Monday is flawed and lacks scientific rigor, there’s no denying the impact this day has on people’s mental well-being.
The history of Blue Monday can be traced back to society’s collective struggle with the post-holiday blues. After the joy and excitement of the festive season, returning to work or school can feel like a harsh reality check. The pressure to set New Year’s resolutions and the financial strain that often follows the holidays can also contribute to feelings of sadness and anxiety.
What are the symptoms’ of Blue Monday and what can we do?
The effects of Blue Monday are not to be underestimated. Research suggests that this day can worsen symptoms of seasonal affective disorder (SAD) and increase the risk of depression and anxiety. It’s essential to recognise that these feelings are valid and that you’re not alone in experiencing them.
So, how can we combat the Blue Monday blues and regain our sense of well-being? While everyone’s experience is unique, here are a few strategies that might help:
- Practice self-care: Prioritise activities that bring you joy and relaxation. Engage in hobbies, take walks in nature, or indulge in a warm bubble bath. Remember to take care of your physical health too, by getting enough sleep, eating balanced meals, and staying hydrated.
- Connect with others: Loneliness can intensify negative emotions, so reach out to friends and family for support. Plan a virtual hangout or meet up for a coffee or walk if possible. Sharing your feelings with someone you trust can provide comfort and perspective.
- Set realistic goals: Instead of putting pressure on yourself to achieve grand resolutions, set small, achievable goals. Celebrate each success, no matter how small, and remember that progress takes time.
- Get moving: Physical exercise releases endorphins, which can improve mood and reduce stress. Find an activity you enjoy, whether it’s dancing, yoga, or simply going for a brisk walk. Engaging in regular exercise can have a long-lasting positive impact on your mental health.
- Seek professional help if needed: If you find that your feelings of sadness and despair persist beyond Blue Monday, do not hesitate to reach out to a mental health professional. They can provide guidance and support tailored to your specific needs.
Conclusion
Remember, Blue Monday is just one day out of the year. It’s crucial to be gentle with ourselves and acknowledge that it’s okay to feel down occasionally. By practicing self-care, connecting with others, setting realistic goals, and seeking professional help when needed, we can combat the Blue Monday blues and navigate through challenging times with resilience and grace.
When you work with Payments Pro you will have access to a number of free tools and services that all come as part of being our employee, at no extra charge. We want to support our workers however we can, be it payroll or wellbeing. Our dedicated app fully integrates most aspects of your working life including wellbeing, having links to a dedicated support services as well as access to people you can speak with when the need is there.
So, let’s embrace this day as an opportunity to prioritise our mental well-being and take proactive steps towards a happier and healthier life. Together, we can overcome the Blue Monday blues and find the strength to face any challenges that come our way.
