January is without question a gloomy sort of month, perhaps the most depressing month of the year. In addition, there exists a day dubbed as the most depressing day of the year. The term Blue Monday originates from an initial press release from 2005, a promotion of sorts for Sky Travel, in which a Dr. Cliff Arnall of the University of Cardiff formulated exactly why the third Monday in January is so unfavourable.

Dr. Arnall calculated the date using a variety of factors including weather conditions, debt levels, failed New Year’s resolutions and the number of days that had elapsed since the end of the Christmas holidays.

To rehash, Blue Monday was publicised on behalf of a travel agency, promoting Sky Travel.

There is no scientifically proven explanation to suggest the third Monday in January is “The most depressing day of the year”. However, it is fact people are more prone to experience low moods in January and the winter months. This can be a direct result of the common winter blues or Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD), a more serious matter.

SAD is a clinical diagnosis which stems from less sunlight, shorter days and is ultimately a form of depression, with the most severe of cases occuring in December, January and February.

So how can one cope more effectively once the Christmas period is over and our outlook is bleak?

Keep Your Friends & Family Close

Socialise, socialise, socialise. Drill this into your thought process. There are countless studies out there that prove just how beneficial socialising and maintaining strong relationships are for your well being and happiness.

Return To A Regular Sleep Routine

“Early to bed and early to rise makes a man healthy, wealthy and wise” is a quote that was used in the journal Poor Richard’s Almanack by Benjamin Franklin.

Simply put, a regular sleep routine leads to a higher quality of life and being happier.

Book A Short Winter Sun Holiday

A lack of sun can leave us Vitamin D deficient. Vitamin D increases seretonin, a chemical in the brain that induces happiness.

A combination of sun and a short break away is a sure way of tackling those January blues.

Incorporate A Mediterranean Diet Into Your Life

The Meditteranean diet consists of vegetables, fruits, beans, nuts, whole grains, olive oil and lean protein and reduces heavily processed, fried and sugary foods.

Eating healthily can provide you with the right nutrients and furthermore, benefit your mental state.