January blues: How to tackle the most depressing month of the year

We’re all aware that January is something of a “forgotten month”.

It’s the month that nobody looks forward to. After all, it’s cold, grey, and wet, and it serves as a reminder of all the things you might have done better in the previous year.

With this in mind, it’s not surprising that “the January blues” has become part of the UK’s collective vernacular – with everyone from hairdressers to doctors prescribing it as a real “thing”.

And, of course, no two years are the same – with the misery of both of the last couple of years worldwide compounding the January blues.

So, let’s take a look at some ways you can tackle it head-on.

Start with exercise

For many people, the New Year is a time to set New Year’s resolutions – and the most popular one of all is undoubtedly living a healthier life.

Regular exercise increases serotonin production – the chemical responsible for happiness – as it releases endorphins.

So, if you’re feeling a bit low, try going for a walk, a jog, or even just getting some fresh air in the garden.

Set yourself some achievable goals

One of the reasons that January can feel so miserable is that it comes straight after Christmas and the New Year – when we can often feel suffocated by the idea of setting our New Year’s resolutions and then repeatedly failing to achieve them.

However, if you break it down, the key to success is to set yourself some achievable goals.

For example, if your main goal is to get fit, then don’t try and run a marathon by the end of the year – just focus on running a mile.

Focus on the little wins

Another way to tackle this period of the year is to focus on the little wins.

For example, it’s important to celebrate small achievements, such as crossing something off your to-do list or writing a blog post that you’ve been putting off for weeks.

These small wins have been proven to help lift people out of a negative frame of mind and can improve your overall mental well-being.

Plan something fun

Finally, it’s important to plan something fun for January.

Now, it doesn’t have to be something extravagant, just as long as it breaks up the monotony of the month! While this is regarded as one of the vital booking months for holidays and other hard-hitting activities, the smaller items can make just as much of a difference.

For example, you could plan a weekend away with friends or go and see a pantomime or a film. The list can well and truly go on.

Alternatively, you could plan something at home, such as a board game night or a movie marathon.

Whatever you pick, make sure it’s something you’ll enjoy – and it’ll make January that much more bearable.