Christmas has gone as fast as it came, the weather is rubbish and daylight is limited. It is normal to feel slightly under the weather in January. Welcome to ‘January Blues’. If you speak to friends, colleagues and family you will probably find you are not the only one who wants to know how to avoid the January blues.

‘Blue Monday’ is the third Monday in January (16^th Jan 2023) and is known as the least upbeat day of the year. This is due to the mix of cold wet weather and long nights. Blue Monday has taken on new meaning in 2023, as many of us are experiencing stress and uncertainty due to financial difficulties and challenges which we are all having to cope with.

Instead of giving into “The January Blues”, why not learn how to beat them? Read our top tips for making the most out of January.

Daylight is important.

A lack of daylight can have a negative effect on the body due to the lack of serotonin in the brain. Ensure you make the most of the daylight hours by taking a walk outside when you can. If you have a busy schedule, try boosting your vitamin D levels taking a vitamin once a day.

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Keep moving.

Regular exercise reduces stress and helps to improve self-esteem levels. The exercise can take any form, even if it is just gentle or moderate activities like jogging, yoga or even a brief lunchtime walk (get daylight ticked off your list too!). Read our blog on how to stay active in the winter.

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Eat well.

It is easy to want to eat stodgy and fattier foods in the wintertime with the cold weather and longer nights. Try eating a healthier diet with balanced carbohydrates, proteins and fibre. Eating properly will boost your mood and can stop sugar cravings.

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Get your sleep.

It is recommended for adults to receive between 7 and 9 hours sleep per night. Poor sleep has a negative effect on your health which can make anxiety and depression feel a lot worse. Try to reduce your screen time before bed ensuring you can unwind properly. You can set an alarm to remind you to get off your screens and start winding down for sleep.

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Organise something to look forward to.

Having something to look forward to will help you focus on the positives. Book a trip to see an old friend, or go join that class you were always tempted to go to.

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Being a student means that you have lots of resources at your hands. Take a look at these offers to help get you throughout the January Blues.

30% discount at vitamist
Discount on Mental Health App Syndi
20% discount at Holland & Barrett
Discount on Hello Fresh
Discount on FiiT Fitness App

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If you are struggling and need advice, Student Minds are accessible 24/7. They empower students and members of the university community to look after their own mental health, support others and create change. Their goal is to transform the state of student mental health so that all in higher education can thrive.

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