Digital Marketing Executive Sophie Goodwin shares her top tips for coping with the January blues
Today is Blue Monday, apparently the worst day of the year for your mental health and wellbeing. So if no one has asked you today, how are you feeling? If you’re feeling overwhelmed, sad, lonely, confused (or any other combination of emotions), here are some top tips to combat the January blues.
Have a routine: Whether you’re working from home, in the office, or currently out of work, it’s important to set a daily routine every day. Whether it’s your daily lunchtime walk with the dog (or by yourself or with your partner), after work HIIT workout in the garage or taking the time to zoom/ring a friend or family member, having structure can really help maintain your get up and go every day.
Get daily fresh air: This one seems obvious but getting outside every day is so important for your mental health, to help clear your face and just genuinely put a smile on your face (who doesn’t love seeing all the local dogs at the park?)
Be kind to yourself: Nobody can deny how difficult the last (almost) 2 years have been for everyone, so don’t forget to cut yourself some slack. Whether you’re juggling childcare and a full-time job, your job and an exercise routine (or any other combination of responsibilities) remember to be kind to yourself (chocolate and your favourite Netflix series often helps). Know how strong you are, you’ve got through everything that life has thrown at you so far, and you’ll continue to do so. You’re stronger than you think.
Smile at a stranger: This one might sound a bit strange, but the power of a smile to a stranger on your daily walk might completely lift their mood and make their day (or week). You have no idea what other people are going through, or when that person may have last seen, spoke or interacted with someone. Try it on your next walk!
Speak out if you’re struggling: If you are struggling with your motivation or your mental health, please speak out. Whether it’s to your partner, parent, friend, sibling or work colleague, the people who care about you want to be able to support you in any way they can. Don’t suffer in silence. If you don’t feel like talking to someone you know, then there’s plenty of free organisations who are here to help. A list of them can be found here.
Stay safe, take care and remember you’ve got this!
