How to cope with the January blues

January 21st, 2012 by Keeley Townsend - BA Hons, 'Ad.Dip.CP', 'Dip Hyp' MNCS (ACC)

New Year's resolutions can often fill people with a sense of hope and expectation however for some it can be somewhat of an anti climax.  People may find themselves a tad depressed or under stress, particularly if the festive season was spent visiting friends and family.  Going back to the old routine can prove hard.  Perhaps you might feel overwhelmed by other problems.  You may be worrying about money and the hefty credit card bill is weighing you down.  Perhaps you have put on a few extra pounds and the trousers that used to fit you perfectly are now feeling slightly less roomy.  Or you may be feeling like you have been missing out on me time.  If you have a new born baby, 24-7 childcare may be feeling overwhelming.

When your body hurts it means that your suffering from a physical problem, feeling depressed is a sign that there is something wrong emotionally.  Firstly it is really important that you avoid giving yourself a hard time for feeling down.  Here are a few tried and tested tips that might help and never forget that there will always be a counsellor in your area to offer some well needed support.

1) Make music.....Research shows that listening to uplifting, energetic music is a great mood booster.

2) Socialize...If you are feeling blue, you may have to fight the action urge to isolate yourself.  Arrange a coffee with a friend or go out for lunch with a family member.  I guarantee you will feel better than ruminating with your worries.

3)  Get physical....30 minutes daily exercise at least 5 times a week can help depression, stress and anxiety symptoms.

4)  Eat right.....Eat feel good foods.  Foods that are high in omega 3 fatty acids (oily fish and nuts) may inhibit your bodies production of chemicals that have been linked to depression. Perhaps consider taking a fish oil supplement to give you an extra boost.

5)  Deal with troublesome emotions....Feelings can be like a pressure cooker, if they are not released appropriately then you may explode.  Knowing when to ask for help is essential and it is a sign of strength not weakness.  So don't let pride stop you from asking for it.  If you would rather not confide in a friend or relative then seek help from a registered and accredited counsellor.  A good one will offer you non judgmental support and will provide you with the tools that may help you feel less overwhelmed.

6)  Sleep and eat right....A fit and healthy body often goes hand in hand with a fit and healthy mind.  You need to try and eat sensibly and get at least 7.5-8 hours sleep a night.