{"id":34040,"date":"2025-01-18T03:00:58","date_gmt":"2025-01-18T03:00:58","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/peraltafinancing.com\/business\/insurance\/yes-or-no-to-blue-monday\/"},"modified":"2025-01-18T03:00:58","modified_gmt":"2025-01-18T03:00:58","slug":"yes-or-no-to-blue-monday","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/fivemor.com\/?p=34040","title":{"rendered":"Yes or no to Blue Monday?"},"content":{"rendered":"


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For some years now, the third Monday in January has been known as \u2018Blue Monday\u2019<\/strong>. It\u2019s supposedly the most depressing day of the year, calculated on factors like the weather, debt, salaries, and the time passed since Christmas. Not very uplifting is it. <\/em><\/p>\n

Interestingly, the term finds its origins from a marketing stunt in the early 2000s, designed for holiday adverts to have maximum impact. So, should we acknowledge Blue Monday? <\/p>\n

It may have started as a marketing campaign, but that doesn\u2019t mean that mental health isn\u2019t important. It\u2019s worth us all keeping an eye on friends, family and ourselves, as problems can spike in the first month of the year. Naturally, it\u2019s all teamed with coming down from the emotional high of the festive season and get back to the reality. After all, the winter blues \u2013 or seasonal affective disorder \u2013 are very real, and there can be many challenges in your working life.<\/strong><\/p>\n

Before you read on, tell us what you think!<\/h2>\n

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\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\tWhy not ask your friends about their resolutions? Share below!<\/span><\/p>\n<\/p><\/div>\n<\/p><\/div>\n<\/p><\/div>\n<\/p><\/div>\n

Mental health issues are a major factor that often get looked over, which many organisations are striving to change. So, we\u2019re here to cut through the noise and offer some helpful advice about how to help yourself and those you work with this winter.<\/p>\n

Mental health \u2013 what\u2019s the big deal?<\/h2>\n

In 2022-23, stress, anxiety, and depression accounted for almost half (49%) of work-related ill-health<\/strong>. And it can all come to a head in January. The dark, winter months can even lead to seasonal affective disorder (SAD), a condition that means your depression is linked to changes in the seasons.<\/p>\n

But if you do feel yourself feeling down in January, there are several ways to combat the winter blues!<\/p>\n

The NHS advises making sure you get enough sleep, and adequate exposure to sunlight during the day. This can be tricky in the dwindling daylight hours, but try to maximise natural light by keeping your home and work environments bright. If you work from home, try positioning your desk by a window. If you work in an office, make an effort to get outside on your lunch break.<\/p>\n

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Regular\u00a0exercise\u00a0is also important, especially if you can brace the cold weather and do it outdoors and in daylight, as it can significantly improve your mood. Additionally, maintaining a healthy and balanced diet can help boost your immune system during the winter months, and prevent you catching bugs and lurgies!<\/p>\n

Supporting those around you \u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0<\/h2>\n

Recognising the signs of mental health issues in a family member, friend or colleague can be difficult, especially as they may not even be aware of a problem themselves. But, if they don\u2019t seem like their usual self, both in terms of their personality, but also their approach to life or work<\/strong>, it can be a good idea to check in and see how they are. <\/p>\n

After all, you can always do so casually just to assess if it\u2019s just a bad day, or something more serious. And you\u2019ll be part of the positive movement to normalise conversations about mental health, especially in the workplace.<\/p>\n

If you are concerned about someone, find a place and time to talk to them away from distractions, and somewhere they\u2019ll feel comfortable<\/strong>. Ask how you can help, and remember to be patient, respectful, and open-minded. You may not get an answer straight away, but it\u2019s important to reassure someone that you are there to help if they need it.<\/p>\n

And remember, your role is to listen and signpost where they can find expert support<\/strong>. You\u2019re not expected to be a counsellor or a mental health professional, so if you notice that the issue is more serious than just a bad couple of days, speak to a professional or seek confidential support through a helpline (we\u2019ve compiled a useful list at the end of this page).<\/p>\n

What should employers do to help mental health in the workplace?<\/h2>\n

If you run a business, you\u2019re not only aware of your mental health, but you have a duty of care for your employees. Having a mental health strategy, and making sure your team are all aware of the support available will help everyone become more comfortable with discussing their mental health in the workplace in an appropriate way.<\/p>\n

You can lead by example and encourage your team to ask how others are feeling<\/strong>. If an employee approaches you with concerns, either about themselves or a colleague, discuss any issues with sensitivity, the right levels of privacy and confidentiality.<\/p>\n

Useful helplines where you can find support:<\/h2>\n