If your mood dips at the start of the new year, you’re not alone. Here are our 7 top tips to help you beat the January blues
Why do we suffer from the January blues?
January can be a month of mixed emotions. The start of a new year offers a blank state and myriad possibilities, but the Christmas comedown can also lead many of us to suffer from the January blues.
If you find January tough, you’re not alone. Many of us are struck with a feeling of sadness as well as a general lack of motivation and energy at this time of year. You may also be dealing with the condition SAD – Seasonal Affective Disorder.
There are many reasons that January is known as a month of low moods; the pressure that comes with making the most of a new year can contribute, but the bad weather and extended darkness that characterises this time of year can both be disheartening. Add the end of the festive period and the financial worries that often come with Christmas into the mix, and you have the perfect recipe for January blues.
1. Get moving
It might sound counterintuitive but when you’re struggling with low energy, exercising is one of the best things you can do. That doesn’t mean you need to start going to the gym if that’s not your thing, just find ways to move your body in the way that feels best to you. Exercise can generate endorphins, reduce stress, and improve your self-esteem. So, whether you start taking a daily walk, going for a swim, or dancing in your living room, get moving.
2. Follow the sun
When the sun doesn’t come up until after 8am and sets again by 4pm, the long stretches of darkness can make January feel even harder. A lack of Vitamin D from natural light can impact your mental health and so the more daylight you can get, the better. This could mean anything from keeping your curtains open for as long as possible to spending your lunch break outdoors, or even investing in a SAD lamp. All these actions could help boost the serotonin in your brain and contribute to beating the January blues.
3. Try something new
Once the excitement of Christmas and New Year’s Eve is over, returning to our everyday routines can feel like a bit of a let-down. One way to bring some extra excitement into your life is to try something new. Not only could this break up your routine, but it can also improve your mood by bolstering your confidence and self-esteem and providing a sense of achievement. You could pursue a passion, learn a new skill, or visit somewhere new for the first time.
4. Sleep in
Rest is important. If you’re struggling to get to sleep and have a solid seven to nine hours each month, you could be left feeling irritable and anxious during the day. Try to prioritise sleep in January; put your phone down early in the evening to give your mind time to unwind, implement a regular bedtime routine, and avoid the temptation to keep snoozing your alarm. The better your sleep quality, the better your mood.
5. Share your worries
If you’re suffering from the January blues, it’s likely your friends and family will be too. The fact that January blues exists as a phrase shows just how common it is. The more open you can be with the people you trust, the easier it can be to navigate the tougher times together. While you might feel like curling up on the sofa alone, push yourself to keep your connections strong. Socialising is good for your mental health, whether you meet up with a friend for drinks or arrange a virtual catchup over Zoom.
6. Seek debt help
Whether you went over budget in the festive period or have existing debts that need to be dealt with, financial worries can have a big impact on our mental health and wellbeing in January. Seeking professional debt advice could be the first step in getting back on track for the rest of the year. Our expert team will take the time to understand your situation and listen without judgement. They’ll explain the different debt management options available and help you find the right solution for you.
7. Treat yourself
January is the season of New Year’s resolutions. Many of us start the year promising to eat better, work out every day, or cut back on spending. While these are all great goals, being too strict, and potentially even punishing ourselves if we slip up, can make us feel worse in a tough time. Try to let yourself have a small treat every now and again; an occasional takeaway coffee won’t break your budget and a slice of cake won’t ruin your diet. Enjoy the little luxuries and you might find it easier to make the bigger changes stick.
Looking to tackle your debt this year? Our team is here to help. Give us a call on 0161 660 0411 or send a message here
