Tackling the January blues

Health and Safety Consultant, Adam Williams discusses the impacts of the January blues on the workplace. As well as this, he offers advice on how we can beat the January blues and overcome Blue Monday.

Following the busy festive period, for some people, January can feel like the gloomiest month of the year, with many experiencing the ‘January blues’.  The poor weather, shorter days, Christmas debt and seeing less of family and friends can contribute to some people feeling low. As well as the January blues, there is Blue Monday. This is said to be the most depressing day of the year, which falls on the third Monday in January.  This year it is on the 15^th January.

In addition, people may be feeling the effects of Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) which affects around 2 million people in the UK. This is linked to the changes in seasons when the days become shorter, darker, and colder. Key symptoms of SAD include depression, sleep problems, lethargy, overeating, irritability, and feeling down and unsociable.

Impacts of the January blues on the workplace

• High absence rates
• Increased presenteeism
• Reduced productivity due to difficulty concentrating and reduced motivation
• Reduced collaboration due to isolation from colleagues

Tips on how you can beat the January blues and overcome Blue Monday

1. Daylight – Making the most of daylight can improve your mood.
2. Exercise – Regular exercise can make you feel better and improve your wellbeing.  Participating in a fitness class or going for a run or a walk can improve our mood.
3. Nutrition – Eating well can contribute to our mood improving.  Ensuring you have a healthy and balanced diet and drinking at least 2ltrs of water each day is recommended.
4. Sleep – Having a poor sleeping pattern can contribute to low mood and can make some people anxious.  It is recommended that we get 7-8 hours sleep per night.
5. Look after yourself – Ensure you are looking after yourself by making time to do the things you enjoy.
6. Avoid unrealistic New Year’s resolutions – Setting yourself unrealistic goals can contribute to low mood. Ensure you set yourself goals that are achievable.
7. Make plans – Booking a holiday or planning a trip can increase our mood as it gives us something to look forward to in the future.
8. Seek help – If you have identified you have concerns and require professional help, use Hub of Hope App to search for support in your local area.

Mental Wellbeing training

At HPC, we offer Mental wellbeing courses, ranging from a short 2.5 hour awareness course, to a full two-day Mental Wellbeing First Aid course.  Our next Mental Wellbeing First Aid course is on the 20^th and 21^st March. This course will equip you with the skills to spot signs of declining mental health, and by using a practical action plan, be able to offer someone help both in an emergency and longer-term situation. By the end of the 2-day course you will be a certified Mental Wellbeing First Aider. You can find more information on this course here. To book onto our next course, get in touch with us on training@hpc.uk.com.

To find out more information or if you require any advice regarding employee wellbeing, get in contact with our team of experts.

T: 0330 107 1037

E: contact@hpc.uk.com

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