Kicking January Blues into the Long Grass

The emotional wellbeing and support charity the Samaritans are inviting people to check in with friends and family on the occasion of “Blue Monday”. This is an informal appelation for what some people consider to be the most “depressing day of the year”. The reasoning is explained by our fellow LGBTQ broadcasters Gorgeous FM who say “The third Monday of January is considered to be the most depressing day of the year: the festive season is over, bills may have arrived, payday is some way off, the weather is gloomy and new year resolutions may have been shelved”. With lockdown also affecting mental health, the Samaritans are inviting people to turn things round and respond to Blue Monday, with Brew Monday. The charity is inviting people to spend a while talking to someone they know, especially people who might be spending the day alone. Reaching out via social media or traditional methods like writing a card or a letter can really have a positive effect on others mental health, and makes us feel good too. Doctor Craig Knight of the University of Exeter says that “Humans are amongst the most sociable of all mammals and, generally, we suffer without human contact”  . His recommendations for getting through January are, prioritising good sleep, eat for wellbeing, get some exercise, and ask for help. Thanks to Stylist magazine for outlining those tips.