What is the meaning of a Blue Monday?
By Mary Dennehy
TODAY is believed to be one of the most difficult days of the year, Blue Monday.
However, it doesn't have to be, with a movement in place to turn Blue Monday into Brew Monday.
A movement is in place to turn Blue Monday into Brew Monday
What is a Blue Monday?
Blue Monday is believed to be caused by a number of factors, mainly weather, lack of sunlight, the now-distance warmth of Christmas, empty bank accounts and failed New Year’s resolutions.
However, Blue Monday is not scientific fact - and it’s ok to feel happy on Blue Monday.
For those of you feeling a little under the weather, why not treat yourself to a tasty lunch, your favourite song or have a cuppa with a friend.
There’s lots of little comforts in all of our lives that can make things a little easier such as family, music and a shared cuppa.
Give yourself and those around you some TLC today and go for a 20-minute walk with your co-workers, the break from your desk, conversation and sunlight will put a pep in your step.
How to beat Blue Monday?
Connecting with others can help beat the January Blues, with Samaritans Ireland encouraging people to turn Blue Monday into Brew Monday.
According to the Samaritans, Blue Monday does not have to be one of the most difficult days of the year.
The charity is encouraging friends, family and colleagues to check-in with each other, and reach out to people who may be feeling lonely over a cuppa.
What is the meaning of a Blue Monday?
According to Mental Health Ireland: “Blue Monday is the name given to the Monday that falls in the last full week of January.
“It’s been suggested this particular day is the most depressing of the year.
“However, research shows that it’s not the actual day that gets people down and makes them feel gloomy but simply the shorter days and less sunlight we have in January and throughout the winter months.”
The shorter days and less sunlight can contribute to having a Blue Monday
Mental Health Ireland has put together a list of steps that people who feel low today or any day during the winter months can take.
These steps include –
Exercise
Eat well
Be sociable
Join an interest/activity group
Join a support group
Set realistic goals, especially at New Year
Get professional help
For further information, advice and tips on positive mental health visit: www.mentalhealthireland.ie.
Anybody who needs to talk can call:
The Samaritans on 116 123 / www.samaritans.org.
Pieta House on 1800 247 247 / www.pieta.ie.
TeenLine Ireland on 1800 833634 / www.teenline.ie.
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