Blue Monday - Fact or Fiction?

In recent years, the third Monday in January (today) has been christened Blue Monday. So if you're wondering why you can't shake off that muggy Monday feeling today, you now may have an explanation. The term 'Blue Monday' was first published in 2005 by holiday company Sky Travel, which claimed to have calculated the date using an equation. This is dismissed as pseudoscience by experts but when you take a look at the elements involved in making up this questionable formula, it actually makes a lot of sense. Factors include weather conditions, debt level, time since Christmas, time since failing our new year’s resolutions, low motivational levels and feeling like you need to take action. What it boils down to is that it can influence us all differently, depending on our own circumstances. What we do know for sure is that depression and anxiety are very real for some people.  Aware is an organisation set up in Ireland over 30 years ago which educate and empower people to look after their mental health. According to Aware, depression is a very common condition which affects 1 in 10 people at any one time. It's important to remember that you are not alone if you are feeling down. It's a common piece of advice but one that will always be true, if you are feeling down, talk to someone you trust.  A friend, family member or a counsellor. For more information and advice on depression and anxiety, check out Aware's website - https://www.aware.ie/information/depression/If you're looking for a pick up on a Blue Monday - these tips may hopefully give you a lift!1) Meet or Call a Friend - yes meet or call, not text. The art of conversation has been downgraded to emojis and gifs but sometimes the face of a smiling friend is the best way to lift you out of your low mood2) Talk to Yourself -  Sound a bit crazy?  Sometimes we can be our own worst enemies, beating ourselves up and pushing ourselves too much. Give yourself a break. Positive psychology has gained a lot of traction in recent years as a science in making us happier. This article from Life Hack explains the importance of positive self-talk on your brain and as a consequence, your overall wellbeing -  https://www.lifehack.org/424334/science-explains-how-talking-to-yourself-improves-your-brain-functions3) Eat Food you Enjoy - Being January, there's not many of us who aren't trying to shed a few pounds, but why torture yourself with foods you dislike. It's just not sustainable and it makes you miserable. There are plenty of healthy ways to eat whereby you can also enjoy the food you eat. Even the best, most well-balanced diets will not meet their potential if they are not enjoyed. Finding pleasure in the food you eat will also ease the digestive process as a whole and make your body more content.4) Try Something New - Life can get laborious and repetitive, if we make it our mission to try new things, we awaken a new sense of life within us and life becomes exciting again. Check out HuffPost article on the benefit of trying new things - https://www.huffingtonpost.com/entry/a-look-at-the-incredible-benefits-of-trying-new-things_us_59196b49e4b02d6199b2f1295) Hugs - Who doesn't love a good hug? A hug is the fastest way for you to get oxytocin flowing in your body. Oxytocin, also known as the “love drug”, calms your nervous system and boosts positive emotions.It is also important to remember that we spend approximately a third of our lives at work.  If you're unhappy in work, remember there are always other options - At Celtic Careers, we pride ourselves in finding you a job you will fit into and that you will love. Visit our website to submit your CV or check out job options https://www.celticcareers.ie/ You can also call us anytime for a chat on 01- 6278750