This year Blue Monday is inevitably going to be rough given that we’re all mostly confined to our homes, but there are ways to help keep the most depressing day at bay.

First things first, experts don’t believe that Blue Monday is even a thing – in fact, it was brought about as a PR stunt by a travel company that wanted to sell more holidays! Now, that’s not to say that you shouldn’t be feeling sad, down or depressed – everyone is on an emotional roller coaster right now – you’re not alone.

With that in mind, if you’re experiencing a case of the blues this Blue Monday, or on any day of the week for that matter, give some of our tips a try.

Avoid Food That Alters Your Mood

What’s the first thing you did this morning? Grab a coffee or tea? Me too – but it’s worth bearing in mind that caffeine, alcohol and other mood-altering substances can have a big impact on how you feel, so cut down if you’re feeling low.

Express Yourself

Whether you like to immerse yourself in a book, escape into other worlds via gaming, express how you feel through art or relax over a drink with friends – find time to do more of the things that make you feel good. It will help you to stay connected, to discover more about who you are, to relax as well as have fun.

Keep Moving

Staying active is important for our physical and mental health – we all know that. But did you know that regular exercise can reduce the risk of major illness by up to 50% and early death by up to 30%? You don’t have to be running 5 miles a day to see the benefits either – a brisk 30-minute walk is just as good for you.

There’s a raft of research that shows that moving more can help boost self-esteem, mood, sleep quality and energy, as well as reducing your risk of stress, depression, dementia and Alzheimer’s disease.

Just Breathe

This is another simple but important tip. When we’re stressed or anxious our breathing tends to get faster and shallower. If you find yourself feeling overwhelmed try to regulate your breathing as much as possible by inhaling slowly and deeply. Try to breathe less than 12 breathes a minute, as slower respirations decrease the body’s stress response.

Boredom Busters

Given that we’re all currently being asked to stay home, I think it’s fair to say that most of us are pretty bored. I’m certainly sick of starring at the same four walls day in day out. And although a routine can help us to feel safe and secure, changing things up now and again can help lift your mood when you’re feeling low. Whether you explore a new place on your walk, buy a new book, game or craft, cook something different or rejig the lounge, try and find ways to break up the monotony of daily life right now.

When to Seek Help

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If you are experiencing low mood for longer than two weeks, mental health and wellbeing charity, The Kaleidoscope Plus Group, strongly recommends that you go and see your GP – this will help you explore what services are available.

If you’re in crisis, The Kaleidoscope Plus Group have a free confidential crisis text line that’s available 24/7 to anyone in the UK. Simply text TEAMKPG to 85258

The Kaleidoscope Plus Group is a national charity that champions change promotes positive mental health & wellbeing and delivers valuable services to communities all over the UK. They have lots of helpful resources on their website and social media including a self-help toolbox that’s full of fantastic tips to get you through.

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