Monday, 21 January marks the most depressing day of the year

A MENTAL health expert has officially labelled today as the most ‘bluest’ day on the calendar. A United Kingdom psychologist Dr Cliff Arnall, said by way of a complex algorithm, which considers various factors, such as financial debt, failed New Year’s resolutions and low motivational levels into account, this third Monday in January is the most depressing day of the year.

While skeptics have questioned its validity, it’s no surprise that the month of January plays host to the most depressing day of the year given the avalanche of bills that come crushing down after Christmas.

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Shouqat Mugjenker, Mental Health Portfolio Manager for Pharma Dynamics – a health firm specialising in antidepressants – says the holidays tend to give us a temporary high, with laughter, lights and music everywhere we go, but once the buzz wears off we are faced with the realities (and monotony) of life again.

“Although, feeling low in January is common, depression rates in our country are already worryingly high, with one in three South Africans suffering from the condition. Given the concerning statistic, it’s important for the public – at especially this time of year – to develop proper coping skills to help them get through the additional pressures that the start of the year typically brings,” he said.

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Mugjenker points out that there are many factors that contribute to the onset of depression, including substance abuse, hormonal changes, genetic characteristics, certain medications, illness, grief and stress, but that early detection and learning how to deal with depression are key.

He suggests the following strategies to help lift consumers’ mood in January:

1. Identify why you’re feeling so low by completing the ‘Wheel of Life’ – an exercise often used by life coaches to help people pinpoint their unhappiness.
2. Set yourself realistic expectations – even if it means scrapping your original list of New Year’s resolutions.
3. Don’t procrastinate! The more you put things off, the more miserable you will feel.
4. Identify activities that reduce stress in your life and make more room for them this year, such reading a good book, listening to music, spending time outdoors etc.
5. Try and incorporate regular exercise as physical activity can release endorphins which reduces stress levels and make you feel happy.

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