Nova Scotia Buzz
Everyone has bad days, but the third Monday in January is considered by some to be the most depressing day of the year.
Some claim this is the day people face the toughest psychological challenges of the year. Issues include having to pay Christmas credit card bills, the cold dark weather and broken New Year’s resolutions. Add on top of this dealing with COVID-19 pressures for the last two years.
The term Blue Monday was coined by Dr. Cliff Arnall in 2004 when he was commissioned by Sky Travel to create a formula for January blues. The travel agency went on to use the term Blue Monday to sell vacations.
Unscientific formula:
[W + (D – d)] X TQ / M x Na
- W = weather
- D = debt
- d = monthly salary
- T = time since Christmas
- Q = time since failing new year’s resolutions
- M = low motivational levels
- Na = the feeling of a need to take action
Many have debunked the theory saying that it’s nonsense and say that Blue Monday should not be confused with regular depression and Seasonal Affective Disorders which are real conditions.
Now that we’ve established Blue Monday is completely made up, here are some things you can do to cheer yourself up anytime of year.
#1 Do something nice for someone else
On “Blue Monday” or any day, pay for someone’s coffee behind you in line while in the drive-thru. Doing things for someone else makes you feel good too and leads to greater happiness.
#2 Go For A Walk
Walking is not only good exercise it’s good for your mental health according to many doctors. Set a time and get outside. If the weather doesn’t cooperate, do it as soon as it clears.
#3 Get dressed up
Many have been working at home for months and have not been as outgoing as before the pandemic. Get dressed up and seize the day. A nice outfit inspires confidence and can fix a bad mood.
#4 Watch a funny movie
“Laughter is the best medicine” says the famous saying and it is proven to reduce stress. Put on your favourite comedy or check out a new one and laugh until your heart is content.
#5 Phone a friend
Anytime you’re feeling down, pick up the phone and call a friend or family member who cares. Having someone listen to what has been on your mind and being able to talk through it can reduce stress.
Helpful Phone Numbers:
Provincial Mental Health and Addictions Crisis Line:
Do you need help now? The service is available 24 hours a day, seven days a week to support callers who present with suicidal thoughts, self-harming thoughts or behaviors, overwhelming anxiety, difficulty coping with distress, psychotic or distorted thinking, depression, substance use difficulties or any other self-identified mental health concerns. Crisis is self-defined by the individual calling for support. 1-888-429-8167
Kids Help Phone:
1-800-668-6868 or text CONNECT to 686868
Nova Scotia Mental Health and Addictions Intake Service:
If you need help with a mental health and addiction concern there is help: 1-855-922-1122
Emergencies:
If you are in an emergency situation call 911
