So, Blue Monday. Is it really a thing?

So, Blue Monday. What is it and do you have to participate?

“Blue Monday is a PR stunt that was originally dreamed up to sell holidays. It is a myth, a false calculation based on things like the gloomy weather, post-Christmas debt, disappointment from not keeping New Year’s resolutions, dissatisfaction about going back to work and general doom and gloom.”

Source: https://www.mentalhealth.org.uk

 

The quick answer is no, you don’t have to join in. The more inspiring answer can be found below.

 

In a nutshell, Blue Monday isn’t a scientific thing. While it is true that all of the above factors exist, we don’t have to own them and let them determine our next steps. Instead, we can make choices about what to do with them instead.

Gloomy weather?

Call a friend and go for a nature walk. Is no one available? No problem, put on some tunes and walk.

Post-Christmas debt got you down?

Trimming your spending next year by giving gifts of time or homemade things like jams, granola, and salsa.

Failed New Year’s resolutions?

Don’t even get me started! You were great last year and you still are. Want to set some goals? Now you are talking. Goals are inspiring and have room for grace. Resolutions often make us feel even worse about ourselves. Did you make a resolution to lose weight this year? No worries, I’ve been there too. Read this to let yourself off the hook.

Not happy about going back to work?

Well, my friend, is it time to look for a new job, or change your outlook?

And yes, sometimes cake is really what a Monday needs to feel a little better. 😉

In no way do I mean to minimize the winter blues, they can be a real and very hard thing. The thing is though that I’m not going to let a PR campaign tell me how or when to have feelings. If you are struggling with feeling blue, reach out for help. You don’t need to do this alone. There are so many people who want to help you – your healthcare provider, therapist, and your loved ones want you to thrive.