I'm not having Blue Monday.

Today is purported to be ‘Blue Monday’- the most depressing day of the year - and I'm not having it. There is no much thing as a 'depressing day'.

It’s a made up idea, of course - but the reality is that this is a difficult time for many people, for lots of reasons - the come-down after the festive season, reality hitting in the form of credit card bills, relationships under extra strain and seasonal illness.

For some people sadness, unhappiness and even depression are a reality a lot of the time. It is important to acknowledge that depression is not just a one-day event - and for many people that experience depression and other mental and emotional issues, it can be very difficult to lift yourself out of a persistent low state.

Mental Health charity Mind have commented previously on the subject of Blue Monday:

"Blue Monday contributes to damaging misconceptions about depression and trivialises an illness that can be life threatening. 1 in 6 people will experience depression during their life. It can be extremely debilitating with common symptoms including inability to sleep, seeing no point in the future, feeling disconnected from other people and experiencing suicidal thoughts.

There is no credible evidence to suggest that one day in particular can increase the risk of people feeling depressed. There are of course certain things that may make people feel down at this time of year, such as post-Christmas financial strains, broken New Year’s resolutions, bad weather and short daylight hours. However, depression is not just a one day event."

I couldn't agree more - depression is a serious illness that requires compassion and care.

It is also important to acknowledge that there is a difference between feeling low, or feeling depressed - and being depressed. And there is a lot that we can do to help ourselves and each other. For me this starts with self care - and I believe that one of the cornerstones of self care is gratitude.

In a bid to counteract the idea of Blue Monday, for the last 7 days, I have been looking at gratitude. Gratitude is the emotion that relates to our ability to feel & express thankfulness & appreciation. Expressing gratitude improves mental, physical & relational well-being. Being grateful also impacts on the overall experience of happiness- & these effects tend to be long-lasting. People that practice gratitude, experience better emotional wellbeing. That is the key really- to practice.

Some people have said to me that they can’t find anything to be grateful for, or that they are so worried about one problem, it is hard for them to see anything else. I have found when I have felt that way, finding even the smallest thing to be grateful for- the sun breaking through some clouds, or a smile exchanged with a stranger; is enough to help me to find hope.

Could you build the practice of gratitude in to your day, every day? This could be a daily journal, or just simply a moment taken as you go to bed every night to reflect on the things that you are grateful for. I know from my own experience that, with practice, I have been able to find something to be grateful for, during even the darkest of times.

If you are struggling with a persistent low mood and need someone to talk to, your GP is a really good place to start, or you can contact the Samaritans 24/7 on 116 123.

With love and gratitude, Claire xx

#bluemonday #mentalhealth #health