Blue Monday 2022: How to avoid the January blues across Sunderland
The third Monday in January marks Blue Monday, commonly known as the most depressing day of the year.
Following the highs of family, food and drinks over Christmas and New Year, January sees the UK crash back down to earth with the return to workplaces and a less busy social calendar, but what can be done to raise the mood on the darkest of winter days?
What is Blue Monday?
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Hide AdBlue Monday was actually born from a PR campaign from holiday firm Sky Travel who, with the help of scientists, looked for a formula for the January blues.
The blues itself, formerly known as seasonal depression, is a real psychological condition seasonal affective disorder and it has been linked to reduced exposure to sunlight over the winter months according to the NHS.
It is important to remember that anyone struggling to cope regarding their mental health should reach out to a medical professional for support.
What can be done to beat the January blues?
The New Year may provide people with a fresh boost of energy, but the short days and long, dark nights can provide slow progress but there are things which can be done to help push against seasonal affective disorder.
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Hide AdThe first recommendation on how to fight against these feelings is to increase exposure to sunlight throughout the day. Sunderland is blessed with a series of stunning parks across the city while Roker, Seaburn and Hendon beaches also offer some ideal outdoor options which are perfect for a lunch break during work or even a longer weekend walk.
A healthier diet has also been shown to improve mood, and Wearside has plenty incredible local restaurants to try out while meat-free options are scattered across the city.
In addition to support from friends and family, creating plans and looking forward to what is coming up has also been shown to raise someone’s frame of mind. This could include meeting at bars, pubs and restaurant across the city or taking advantage of the city’s constantly improving culture scene, including the new Fire Station.