As it’s Blue Monday, it’s wise to brace ourselves for what’s in store on statistically the most depressing day of the calendar year, January 16th. We caught up with mental health advocate and trainer, Ryan Ridgway on ways to turn this Blue Monday into a Blue Funday…
Initially the term ‘Blue Monday’ referred to that feeling we can have after the weekend has ended, signifying the first day back to our routine and responsibilities leaving us feeling a little deflated. Since then, analysts have calculated several factors such as winter weather, debt levels, and motivation amongst other relevant influences to formulate (in theory) what is the most depressing day of the year.
Firstly, I’d like to highlight that key point, theory. Perspective is everything and just because we are told how we could feel on this day doesn’t make it so. Have you ever been in a positive space, and you ask a colleague, friend, or family member how they are feeling… then you are faced with anger, problems, and negative vibes? Suddenly your mood can start to dip, laughter is contagious but so are other energies such as low mood, anxiety, frustration, and tension etc.
So, let’s explore some of the factors you can influence to help your Blue Monday become Blue Funday…
- We all have our own window on the world and with the right tools can put things into perspective. If you’re absorbing negativity online by endless scrolling on social media and listening to the news, change this habit and choose something more positive to listen to or watch. A podcast, a comedy, music, or reading a book rather than scrolling on our devices are all proven to give those happy thoughts and feelings a helping hand.
- Making a gratitude list of the things to be thankful for has been proven to have a positive effect on neurotransmitters and brain chemicals lifting our mood. Write down 10 things you’re grateful for, for a 21-day period to get the serotonin flowing.
- Yes, the weather can be pretty horrible this time of year, but we are not made of sugar! Wrap up, embrace the cold, walk, and let what little sunlight there is into your life. Add to this spending time with nature and you’re onto a winner.
- Plan. What are your goals and what can you look forward to? Is it a holiday, a new hobby or class, maybe simply organising your living environment? Whatever it is, getting our thoughts on paper and having something to work towards can unravel the tangled web of thoughts to get some clarity and direction.
- William H McRaven wrote a best seller called Make Your Bed which focuses on the small things that can change your life. Our habits and behaviours can add up to result in a happier state of being. It takes a bit of discipline but setting the schedule and sticking to it can regain some control.
Let’s own January 16th, push back and reclaim whatever Monday it is as ours, not something to dread.
Here’s to a happy, healthy Monday 16th whatever the stats suggest!
