January can be a difficult month for some people, particularly when it comes to mental health and wellbeing.
Whether it be the gloomy weather, post-Christmas debt, disappointment from not keeping New Year’s resolutions or dissatisfaction about going back to work – it can be a time of year that often-puts extra pressure on us.
Whilst the beginning of a year can often bring a sense of renewal and a chance to set new goals, we understand that this isn’t always the case, especially if you’re experiencing poor mental health and money worries.
Here are Hull and East Yorkshire Mind and Citizens Advice Hull and East Riding’s 8 tips for facing a new year.
Set realistic goals: Begin the year by setting achievable and realistic goals. Break down larger objectives into smaller, manageable steps, allowing for a sense of accomplishment along the way.
Practice mindfulness: Embrace the present moment through mindfulness practices. Whether it’s meditation, deep breathing exercises, or simply taking a moment to appreciate your surroundings, mindfulness can help alleviate stress and enhance mental clarity.
Have a plan to repay any debts: If you borrowed over the festive season, plan how you can effectively repay these debts. Why not write down any payments you need to make and create a mini budget.
Establish a self-care routine: Prioritise self-care by incorporating activities that bring you joy and relaxation into your routine. Whether it’s reading a book, taking a long bath, or going for a walk, self-care can play a crucial role in maintaining and improving your mental wellbeing. It can also help you to take your mind off any worries you may have.
Connect with others: Social connections are essential for positive mental health. Reach out to friends, family, or colleagues to share your experiences and feelings. Research shows that being open and honest with others can help ease stress and allow you to make better financial decisions.
Manage expectations: It’s okay not to have everything figured out right away. Give yourself the grace to adapt to new situations, and don’t be too hard on yourself. Progress takes time, and each step forward is a victory.
Get your finances in order: Use 2024 as an opportunity to get your finances in order. Checking what money you are entitled to could be a good start. Why not speak to Citizens Advice Help to Claim team.
Prioritise sleep: Ensure you’re getting sufficient and quality sleep. A well-rested mind is better equipped to handle stress and challenges. Establish a bedtime routine that promotes relaxation and restful sleep.
You may also hear people talking about ‘Blue Monday’ – a common myth that the third Monday in January (15 January) is the most depressing day of the year.
Whilst there are no scientific studies that back up the concept of ‘Blue Monday,’ January can be a particularly challenging month for many of us. However, we know that depression doesn’t care what day it is. Mental health struggles can manifest at any time and attributing them to a specific day oversimplifies the challenges faced by those dealing with depression.
Get support:
Along with many other local and national organisations, Hull and East Yorkshire Mind and Citizens Advice can offer you support. If you have a money, housing, consumer, family or debt issue then use our self-referral form or national advice line: 0800 144 8848. For one to one or group support to help you with your mental health, call Hull and East Yorkshire Mind on 01482 240133 or complete the online referral form.
