For some time, the third Monday in January has been known to many as Blue Monday. It is rumoured that it was given this title due to a combination of post-Christmas blues, cold dark nights, and the arrival of unpaid credit card bills. But, as research has since proven this to be a myth, we want to join charities such as the Samaritans, and take this opportunity to introduce Brew Monday – encouraging a more realistic and positive approach to good and bad days that we all have.
Introduced by the Samaritans, the concept behind Brew Monday is to realise that we all have good days and bad days, no matter what day of the week. Brew Monday wants us to recognise this and instead of seeing it as a negative day, we should use it as an opportunity to reach out and connect with family, friends, colleagues, and loved ones and start a conversation over a brew. Whether you use Brew Monday as a day to do it, or as a reminder to do it on another day – all you need to do is have a brew and listen, be it in person or virtually.
As healthcare workers who undertake particularly mentally demanding roles, it is vital to take a step back and to take time for yourself. Below we have some other approaches you can take to encourage a more positive mind-set within your lifestyle;
Get outside
Although its winter and cold outside and a duvet day can defiantly work wonders, sometimes getting outside is good for the mind, whether it’s a walk with a friend, pet, or even alone, it can help break up a negative cycle.
Do what you enjoy
Whether it’s a hobby you used to love or something you have been thinking about starting for a while, do it. It doesn’t have to be what everyone else is doing or a ‘trend’, not all of us will enjoy meditating, yoga, or running, just something you find relaxing and enjoyable that will help you take your mind off things.
Reframe your goals
You may have set some new year’s resolutions that you could be struggling to stick to or find they aren’t making you feel as you thought they would. Revisit these and think about why you set these specific goals, do you feel like it’s the ‘in thing’ to do? Did you think they would instantly make you feel better? Did you feel pressured to do it? When setting goals, don’t focus on what you think society thinks you should be doing, and certainly do not look at goals others are setting. Think about what is realistic to you and the goals that will help you work towards a more positive mindset and lifestyle no matter how small they may be.
If you require support please call the Samaritans on 116 123 or visit every mind matters for more advice.