Blue Monday and January Blues

The new year is the time for resolutions and new beginnings, but for many people, January brings about a pause in positivity.

Blue Monday is known as the most depressing day of the year. It is typically the third Monday of the month. And it's considered the saddest day of the year due to a combination of colder weather, long nights and lingering aftermath of the festive period.

What is the Blue all about?

There are biological reasons why many people feel low and lack energy during January and there is nothing "wrong" with having these feelings. Many people will be going through the same or similar feelings, but you may not realize it. Understanding that it is a natural response is helpful.

January Blues is a form of depression that many people feel after the holidays. After the excitement and rush of the Christmas season, it is completely natural to feel a little down at this time of the year, but you don't need to stay down. A free list resources that can help you manage and overcome the January Blues is available on our website at www.positiveactionsinternational.com

Why does it happen?

Some of the reasons are conscious, and others are unconscious adjustments in our mood.

-81% of people had a New Year’s Resolution, but sometimes, failing to make a change or see results right away can leave people feeling worse than they did before they tried.

-Family members and friends who you only see during the holidays are gone, leaving a longing feeling and a sense of nostalgia.

-Holidays are over, meaning it's back to work for many people.

-The festive decorations are all gone, leaving a sense of emptiness as everything has returned to normal.

How to beat it?

Even if you’re still feeling the residual excitement from recent celebrations and perhaps some new gifts, it’s not a bad idea to prepare for the sadness that January can bring.

1. Make nostalgia work for you.

There are things you can do to bring yourself out of the January blues. including recalling positive things you experienced over the holidays, and throughout your life.

2. Set realistic expectations.

One of the reasons why people suffer from the January Blues is that they are overly ambitious with their New Year’s resolutions and are left feeling unhappy when they can’t fulfil them. Making resolutions to better yourself is a good thing, but make sure they are things you can stick to. Avoid difficult and vague resolutions such as “save money”, “be more organized” and make sure it is one you can actually achieve and measure. See additional tips here: https://www.nbcdfw.com/texas-today/new-year-resolutions-that-bring-results/3430530/

3. Develop a vision of your preferred future. You can also make plans for yourself to have a better year than the previous one. These plans can include self-improvement projects, being more sociable, or learning new skills. Solution-Focused therapy can help you develop a vision and action plan to create the life you want to live. Give our office a call today and let’s set up an appointment to talk.

I hope that now you don’t feel so ‘blue’. And remember, these tips can be used on any day not just Blue Monday.

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Need help?

If you’re feeling more than blue, or know someone who is, Counseling at Positive Actions International can help. give us a call at 817-807-0058 or visit our website to set an appointment www.positiveactionsinternational.com