18th January 2021

Blue Monday during lockdown: few tips on how to lift your mood

Blue Monday

The third Monday of January, or the so called Blue Monday is considered as the calendar’s gloomiest day. It is known as the most depressing Monday, due to factors such as weather, low motivational levels, the feeling of a need to take action, etc., which contribute to low mood. In 2021, there is another factor to be added, COVID-19.

The current lockdown restrictions can also have a negative effect on our mental and physical wellbeing. Surveys show that reports of high levels of anxiety amongst the British general public has significantly elevated during the pandemic. Whilst Blue Monday has become somewhat commercialised, perhaps its true meaning is to serve as a reminder that we all have mental health and that there are steps that we can take on every day of the year to try and protect it. Therefore, we have few suggestions which you can do to help lift your mood.

Establishing a daily routine during lockdown is highly recommended, as it can help you stay connected and feel in control during these unprecedented times.

You can start by making a list which includes all the activities you want to implement the following day.  If you find it difficult to fill in the list, you can also include daily tasks such as ‘’making a tea/coffee’’ or ‘’call a friend’’, and tick them off once completed. By doing so, you will create a chart of achievements by the end of the day, which will also allow you to take greater advantage of your time.

A daily routine should also include a meal pattern, keeping yourself hydrated and it is recommended to try sticking to the same sleeping schedule.  Organising your routine well means also including time for rest/relaxation.

Whilst technology can have its negative points, it also brings many positives and the ability to connect virtually is one of them. Due to lockdown, many organisations have had to close their doors, but some have embraced technology and are opening up virtually to people all over the world. We have rounded up a number of virtual experiences, which are available right now, and free of charge.

Other:

Exploring new hobbies and/or practising old ones during lockdown, can help you stay positive and focused. For example, exercising can be a great way of maintaining your physical and mental wellbeing. Even though the gyms are closed, you can join online exercise classes. There are many available free fitness online programs and home exercises, which can boost your energy so you can do the rest of your daily chores.

There is also a long list of available online courses, which may help you unlock hidden talents and learn new skills. More information can be found on:

Where to find free online learning | Find a course | National Careers Service

Staying connected on a regular basis with the people we trust, is important for our mental health. Even though we are restricted to meet family and friends in person, there are other ways we can stay in touch. For example, you can use social media to interact with others, or use some of the old school methods such as writing a letter. Video calls are another great option to meet family or friends virtually, which gives us the opportunity to communicate face-to-face.

Above all, it is very important to support each other, so we can all go through these difficult times together. Weather it is with a colleague, friend or a family member, staying in touch can help us combat the feeling of being isolated.

It is recommended to stay informed during lockdown, in order to be aware of the different changes to the government guidelines and how they are affecting you. There is a pool of information available, however, it is important to use trusted sources such as NHS and the GOV.UK websites.  Be aware that inaccurate information can have negative effects on you and others.

Furthermore, if you feel that news articles and stories are causing you anxiety, it is also vital to take a break -finding an online/offline balance is necessary.