Blue Monday
Blue Monday has become a regular date of the January calendar and for 2023 it falls on the 16th January.
What is it and why did it come about? The theory is with 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, all come to a head around this time. Some claim it is the most depressing day of the year and say 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. They say “one theory is that some people are affected by shorter daylight hours in the winter – they produce higher melatonin, causing lethargy and low mood, and can also be known as Seasonal Affective Disorder - SAD”.
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 vegetables.
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 or the cost of living crisis is catching up on 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 Money Advice Service, their advice is FREE and confidential. Call on 0300 123 4561 or email money.advice@moray.gov.uk
StepChange Debt Charity – Freephone: 0800 1381111 or https://www.stepchange.org/
The Money Helper Service: 0800 1387777 or https://www.moneyhelper.org.uk/en
Citizens Advice: 01343 550088 or https://www.citizensadvice.org.uk/scotland/debt-and-money/
Support is also available via Moray Council’s confidential, 24 hour employee support service which you can contact any time via the confidential helpline, email or online.
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
For further information please go to Time for Talking http://interchange.moray.gov.uk/int_standard/Page_108013.html.
Our Support Services Guide provides a list of useful contacts who offer support and information across a wide range of needs. http://interchange.moray.gov.uk/int_standard/Page_132138.html.