Sefton Council – How Southport residents can beat ‘Blue Monday’

by
15th January 2015

Tips to help beat ‘Blue Monday’

Sefton Council is encouraging residents to look out for each other or discover local services and activities ahead of ‘Blue Monday.’

Blue Monday, said by some researchers to be the most depressing day of the year, falls during the last full week of January. This year, that’s Monday, January 19.

According to research, January 19 is ‘blue’ due to factors including short days, bad weather, post-Christmas debt, returning to work, or failing to stick to New Year’s resolutions.

Cllr Paul Cummins, Sefton Council’s Cabinet Member for Older People and Health, said: “Winter months can be difficult for many in our communities. The bad weather and short days mean people tend not to go out as much and can often feel isolated and down. We are encouraging residents at this time of year to look out for themselves and each other.”

The following tips may help people beat the winter blues:

Try To Get More Active? 

Active Sefton offers a host of sport and fitness activities, regardless of age or ability. Whether residents are new to sport and fitness or need professional coaching advice, there is support for people to enjoy a more active lifestyle.

The South Sefton area has also been granted Sport England funding for extra physical activity sessions for all adults – from young mums to over 50’s

Try To Eat And Drink Well 

Although it’s tempting to eat comfort food like chips or chocolate, a healthy diet can help combat lethargy and low mood. Drinking alcohol can also have a depressant effect on the brain.

View details of weight management courses which give you helpful information and advice on understanding labels and ingredient lists, healthy recipes and how to cut down on alcohol and eating out and takeaways.

Also visit www.healthysefton.nhs.uk

Try To Be Sociable

Staying tucked up at home when it’s cold outside can be appealing, but being cut off from friends or family, or not having a social support network, can make lead to social isolation. Face-to-face human contact stimulates certain physiological responses in the brain that benefit mental health. If possible, try to drop in on a relative, friend or neighbour, or ask somebody if they can pop in to visit you.

For information on finding a local group or discovering a new interest, visit www.seftondirectory.com

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