January can be a month of reflection and resolution, during which we start a-fresh and launch ourselves into the new year ahead. However, with the cold winter nights and dark days there is still a greater risk of low mood and depressive feelings, though without the hopeful thoughts of rest and community that we might find over the winter holiday period.
Monday 19th January was ‘Blue Monday’, the third Monday of January in which people are supposedly more likely to feel low mood.
The Healthwatch Cumberland team decided to spread some joy around in the local areas surrounding our Carlisle office by delivering some mood-boosting gifts. We were even joined by some of the People First learners! The gifts consisted of a postcard detailing our new website address, along with a chocolate heart and a tea bag, and were posted through people’s doors. Did you receive a Blue Monday gift?
Comms and Admin Coordinator Suzannah enjoyed the opportunity to brighten up a Monday morning:
“Blue Monday is a day in which many people might feel a bit down and have less energy than normal. Not everyone feels as comfortable discussing how they feel, but most people enjoy a cuppa and a rest on a cold day.”
“For me, I think it’s important to use any opportunity to celebrate or to take care of yourself. We can get so busy that it’s hard to recognise when you’re feeling a bit tired. In January there is this pressure to keep busy and to start a whole load of new resolutions. I am trying to consciously take more time to rest.”
“My tip for boosting your mood in January and into the rest of 2026 is to break tasks down into smaller ones. I find I can get overwhelmed with a long, vague to do list. Putting things into smaller tasks is more manageable and helps me to enjoy resting and to feel more accomplished when I tick each task off.”
Top tips for boosting your wellbeing throughout January and into upcoming months:
- Take some time to rest and recharge. Just because it’s a new year does not mean that you have to achieve all of your goals in one month.
- Catch up with a colleague, friend or family member to see how they are feeling, and to let them know if you are struggling with low mood.
- Get outside in the fresh air during daylight hours. You could even go for a lunchtime walk.
- If you think you are struggling from Seasonal Affective Disorder, speak to your GP.
- Follow the 5 ways to wellbeing: Connection, Physical activity, Learning new skills, Giving to others, Being present/mindful.
If you’re finding it hard to boost your mental health on your own, why not try joining a sports club or local group. If you live in the Carlisle area, you can come along to Healthwatch Cumberland’s Wellbeing Drop In’s at RESTORE Carlisle.
Join us for a Wellbeing Drop In!
All of our sessions are free, and all materials are provided so all you need to bring is yourself.
February - Light Up the Darker Months:
Clay tealight holder making, Friday 6th February, 10am-12pm, Restore Carlisle.
March - Collage Your Experience:
Frida Kahlo inspired collage session for self-expression, Friday 6th March, 10am-12pm, Restore Carlisle.
April - Relieving Stress in Spring:
Stress Awareness Month and Spring inspired origami crafts, Friday 3rd April, 10am-12pm, Restore Carlisle.
“We can’t wait to launch our new Wellbeing Drop In’s in Restore Carlisle. It’s something we have been wanting to do for a long time! Don’t worry if you’re not creative or don’t know anyone who is going – the idea is to get involved and feel a sense of relief and accomplishment. I can’t wait to get started and see people there!”
-Suzannah, Comms and Admin Coordinator.
If you have any questions about our Wellbeing Drop In’s, please contact the Healthwatch Cumberland team via email: [email protected]