Blue Monday

Today, Monday 20 January is labelled by many as ‘Blue Monday.’ Originally conceived as a PR stunt and coined ‘the most depressing day of the year,’ the purported day of gloom is usually given to the third Monday of each January, given that by now, many of us may have broken our new year’s resolutions and are now saddled with debt following the financial strains of December.

Mental health charities such as Mind are derisive of the notion of Blue Monday, claiming the concept has no foundation in scientific research, is dangerously misleading and perpetuates the myth that depression is merely about ‘feeling a bit down’ and doesn’t need to be taken seriously.

People who struggle with their mental health know only too well that such debilitating feelings are never dictated by a single date. If, however, you are feeling despondent or experiencing factors such as, loneliness, inertia or despair, there are many things you can do to improve your mood and refocus your aims for 2020.

• Re-set any broken goals for this year – make them small, measurable and realistic
• Know your motivation – think about what you’re aiming for and the benefits of achieving it
• Keep a diary – a good reminder as well as helping you plan, for example what to eat, when to exercise and how you can still socialise with friends and family despite having a busy schedule
• Remember to get a good night’s sleep – this is key to helping you stay motivated and on track with your goals
• Review your finances and seek support to help you in the long-term.

Many of us feel better when we are organised and have specific, measurable targets to achieve – but don’t set yourself up for a fall.

Make time for your mental health. Many of us like to focus on and take pride in our physical well-being, but we don’t often make the same amount of time for our mental health. This year, why not make healthy steps towards your mental well-being.

Additional support

First Class Support is a 24/7, completely confidential and independent helpline for colleagues. If you need someone to speak to, please call 0345 266 5060 to receive the following support:

• Mental health support – speak with a trained professional who can help with work-related or personal issues in a non-judgmental and confidential environment.
• Legal signposting - Legal information and signposting is available via telephone with a legal expert (for up to 20 minutes) on a wide range of issues such as family/divorce, neighbour disputes, criminal, consumer, motor and injury.
• Practical help – debt advice, understanding government benefits, resolving accommodation issues and receiving guidance on accessing elder and child care, cancer and disability support is available.
• Manager coaching – receive coaching to help support others going through change; traumatic situations; or resolve conflict.
• Physical health – improve your lifestyle with support designed to increase physical health, fitness and nutrition. Information can also be provided for Royal Mail Group's wellbeing website, Feeling First Class (see below for more information).

For more information, go to www.rmgfirstclasssupport.co.uk. The Feeling First Class portal (code FFC1 to register) has helpful support content for your mental and physical health, including a lifestyle assessment tool. Visit www.feelingfirstclass.co.uk or download the app from iTunes or the Google Play store.

Our in-house charity, the Rowland Hill Fund offers financial aid to colleagues, pensioners and their families in times of need. Call 0345 600 4586 or visit www.rowlandhillfund.org.

Through My Bundle's Financial Wellbeing option, Neyber, you can access debt consolidation loans and financial education. Log into My Bundle through PSP or visit www.myroyalmail.com/benefits​.

Stepchange offers expert, tailored advice and practical solutions to problem debt. Contact the UK's leading debt charity on 0800 138 1111 or visit www.stepchange.org.​

Shout, the mental health text service is a free, nationwide, 24/7, text-based service. Text Shout to 85258 in the UK to text with a trained crisis volunteer.

Whilst many people find January a struggle, many too view it as a new beginning and a fresh start. Some of us can actually find it a relief that the busy period is over and we can have a chance to relax and make plans for a new year. Remember, if you are struggling, you are not alone – help is always at hand.