Bright Blue Monday

In January, there are two types of people. For some, the ‘glass half-full’ people, it is a time to be optimistic and have a fresh start. For others, it is a time people dread which is layered with misery and depression. Our bodies are feeling the consequences of an alcohol and chocolate diet. Our bank account has taken a hammering and it has been a long time since we have had sunshine. Like this wasn't already enough, January is said to host the most depressing day of the year, Blue Monday.

So what is Blue Monday?

Before we start, it will be useful to know that Blue Monday was actually created in 2005 by a British Holiday company. The concept is not a result of any type of research, and there is no science which backs this up. However, the idea has caught on and now many people associate January with bad weather, debt, depression and general feelings of low motivation. What originated as a PR stunt is now an annual event.

The reality is we don’t need a special day to feel depressed. Some people live with depression throughout their entire year. These people do not need to be told that on Monday 15th January, they are going to experience a day which is even more depressing that the rest, and they should look to book a holiday to overcome this. For many, you may have put on a bit of extra weight over Christmas, and you may have spent a bit more than you should have, but don’t let this affect how your experience your day.

Bright Blue Monday

Social media is a powerful tool, and on Monday 15th January Rethink Mental Illness will be using twitter to create a Bright Blue Monday. Do something simple and positive and share it using the hash tag #BrightBlueMonday. The key message we hope to share is that there are many people who live with mental illness and depression throughout the entire year.

We believe you can actually enjoy your day, and change a blue Monday in to a bright blue Monday. How difficult can it be? There are two options. You can either choose to believe your Monday will be bad, and look out for things that make you feel this way, or, you can believe you will have a good day and be more likely to acknowledge the positive moments. The key point here is that for the most part, you are in control of how your day goes and it really is up to you. So with all of that in mind our team has put together a list to make your Blue Monday a little Brighter.

Smile :). Research indicates that smiling can actually trick your brain into thinking that you are happy. Even if the smile is not authentic the results are the same. Your body relaxes and blood-pressure is lowered. Smiling is also contagious, benefiting others to.
Sure, you know exercise is good for you. It makes you feel stronger and keeps your weight in check. However, did you know exercise can also make you happier. It can reduce stress, energise you and boost your confidence. Go out and enjoy exercise!
For many people during this time of year, you wake up to darkness and go home from work in darkness. However, studies show natural light helps stabilise serotonin and triggers endorphin, which are mood-boosting hormones. Try and get outside for at least 10 minutes a day!
Being in the company of people you love is always a positive thing. Talking can always help a situation, so pick up the phone to ring your parents, or swing by a friend’s house to catch up. A friendly face combined with some laughs is a fantastic way of improving your mood.
Do something kind for someone and it will give your own mood a little boost too. Even the simplest actions make a difference. Buy a friend some flowers to cheer them up. This will not only make their day but make you feel better to.

If you think you would benefit from having some laughter and humour in your life, then you will be pleased to know. The Comedy Trust run Well Funny sessions, which are designed to teach participants the benefits of humour and equip them with the skills to improve their personal well-being. So what are you waiting for, drop us an email today or give us a call on 0151 702 5893)

Contact Charlene for details at: charlene@thecomedytrust.com