Every year, the third Monday in January is known as ‘Blue Monday’. The weather worsens, there’s less daylight and we’re all in a post-Christmas slump. On top of that, we’re encouraged to get fit, drink and eat less and take up a new hobby.
Some of us put our lack of motivation down to Seasonal Affective Disorder (also known as SAD or the ‘winter blues’), knowing that once the longer days arrive, we’ll feel better.
But, for others, this time of year can be very difficult. One in four of us will experience a mental health problem at some point in our life so – more than ever – we need to focus on our mental wellbeing and that of our friends and family.
Over the past year, we’ve put together a series of helpful guides covering all aspects of mental health. We hope you find these articles useful.
Men and mental health
According to the Mental Health Foundation, around one in eight men has a common mental health problem such as anxiety, depression, panic disorder or obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD).
If you think a male member of your family is struggling with their mental health, there are ways to help.
Loneliness and its impact on mental health
During the early months of the pandemic, the Government asked everyone in the UK to stay at home to help prevent the spread of COVID-19. During this time, many of us missed seeing friends and family and doing the things we love.
But for some, isolation is a regular occurrence – and it doesn’t just affect older people. Whatever your age, our guide has some useful information on how to overcome those feelings of loneliness.
Work and mental health
Did you know that more than 40 million working days are lost each year because of poor mental health? Working too much or being consumed by your job can lead to stress and poor mental health – and can even affect you physically.
Our guides to staying healthy, happy and motivated at work and maintaining a good work/life balance can help you to avoid those feelings of dread on a Sunday and help you look forward to the week at work.
Help for mental health issues
If you need to talk to someone about your own mental health or that of someone close to you, there are services available for you to find help and advice such as NHS Every mind matters, Mind Charity, Samaritans or speak to a GP (this can be your own or using our Private GP Service).
If you find it difficult to talk about how you feel, or just want some practical advice on how to boost your mental wellbeing, we’ve put together a list of eight ways to help keep calm and carry on and shared our tips to relax and recover.
And don’t forget that Benenden Health members can call the Mental Health Counselling Support line on 0800 414 8247. Check their website for limits and exclusions.
Published on 17 January 2022