The "Blue Monday" concept, which purports to identify the most depressing day of the year, is generally considered a myth. The idea was popularized in 2005 by a press release from a holiday company, which claimed to have used a formula to calculate the date of Blue Monday. However, experts have widely discredited the formula, and no scientific evidence supports the idea that any particular day is inherently more depressing than any other. Additionally, people's moods and mental health are influenced by various factors and cannot be reduced to a single day or formula.
However, discussing mental health on Monday or any other day is essential. The “Blue Monday” could be a good reminder to pause and self-check-in. It can take a few minutes to reflect on our feelings and identify any potential warning signs of mental health issues such as stress, anxiety, or depression. Some things to consider when doing a mental health self-check-in include the following:
· Mood: How have you been feeling lately? Are you experiencing feelings of sadness, hopelessness, or irritability?
· Sleep: Are you getting enough sleep? Is the quality of your sleep good?
· Energy: Do you feel tired or fatigued? Do you have difficulty motivating yourself to do things?
· Appetite: Have you noticed any changes in your appetite? Are you eating more or less than usual?
· Self-care: Have you been taking care of yourself? Are you getting enough physical activity, eating a healthy diet, and engaging in activities that bring you joy?
· Relationships: Are your relationships with friends and family supportive? Are there any conflicts or issues that are causing you stress?
· Thoughts: Have you noticed any negative thoughts that seem to be recurring?
If at any point you notice warning signs of mental health issues, it is best to reach out for professional help. We are here for you at Thrita Centre Counselling.
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