Getting through Blue Monday with advice from NHS Scotland

Today is Blue Monday - what is said to be the most depressing Monday of the year.

Back in 2005 Sky Travel published a paper suggesting that the third Monday of each new year is when happiness levels collectively drop across the Northern Hemisphere.

This is due to various factors including weather, debt, low motivation, and that many of us have already failed in our New Year’s resolutions.

It is important to note that while this is based on psychological research, mental health and when and where it affects us is not a one size fits all, and thus the concept is essentially a myth.

However, is you are feeling a mental strain during this time of year the NHS has issued some advice.

Number one on the list is to connect with those around you - change the idea to ‘Brew Monday’ and talk to friends, family or colleagues over a cup of tea.

Another idea is to use the worry time strategy - where if you do have ‘what if’ anxieties, set aside time, even just 15 minutes to manage them and help gain clarity on the situation.

Finally, don’t put too much pressure on yourself. Exercise and meditation is good for mental health, but even just going a walk and trying to be present in the situation.