Blue Monday - 21 January 2019
‘Blue Monday’ has become a regular date of the January calendar – this year it falls on the 21st – but what is it and why did it come about? The theory is that, the fun of the festivities being over, we’re back at work, the weather is gloomy, post-Christmas credit card bills arrive and New Year’s resolutions are perhaps starting to slide… and it all comes to a head around this time. Some claim it is the most depressing day of the year and say that there is scientific fact behind Blue Monday, while others say it is a marketing ploy by those in the holiday business to make us head straight to the travel agent!
Blue Monday aside, the NHS website says that lots of people can suffer from the ‘winter blues.’ It is thought that the problem is related to the way our bodies respond to daylight. The mental health charity MIND notes one theory that some people are affected by shorter daylight hours in the winter – they produce higher levels of melatonin, causing lethargy and low mood.
To combat this, try getting outside as often as you can, especially if it is a bright day. It is also important to eat well in winter, including plenty of fresh fruit and veg.
Keep active! Activity is thought to change the level of mood-regulating chemicals in the brain, plus it can be a change of scene and opportunities to meet new people and socialise – which can also help.
Please consult a GP or other medical professional if you feel you need support or assistance.
Additionally, if your Christmas spending is catching up with you, don’t worry – there are lots of places to turn for help. Banks usually offer an annual free health check on your finances, or if you have overspent and want to talk to someone about this you can contact our Money Advice Service; their advice is FREE and confidential.
Contact them on 0300 123 4561 or email money.advice@moray.gov.uk
You can also contact:
StepChange Debt Charity – Freephone: 0800 1381111 or https://www.stepchange.org/
Or for Money Management Advice try:
The Money Advice Service: 0800 1387777 or https://www.moneyadviceservice.org.uk/en
Scotland’s Financial Health Service: https://www.scotlandsfinancialhealthservice.gov.uk/
Citizens Advice Scotland: 01343 550088 or https://www.citizensadvice.org.uk/scotland/debt-and-money/
The Council also has a confidential, 24-hour employee support service for you to use any time via the 24-hour helpline.
Time for Talking
Tel: 0800 970 3980 (24/7, 365 days a year)
Website: https://www.timefortalking.co.uk/
Live chat: Enter the website, click on "Live Chat" and enter the password TfTnow