Pine trees have been thrown away, wreaths and fairy lights have been put up again, and in just a few short weeks, heavy feelings of sadness can set in when the Christmas celebrations officially move in.

The third Monday of the month, January 16, marks Blue Monday, which is considered the saddest day of the year and a particularly difficult time for some.

“Now the holiday celebrations are over and people are returning to their usual routines, and moreover, we are also facing the deep cold and dark winter season,” said Vera Cheng, social worker and psychotherapist at CTV. Monday news channel. “As the post-holiday slump sets in, we’re also trying to live up to the reality of our New Year’s resolution, which can be a tough time on our mental health.”

According to the Canadian Mental Health Association (CAMH), one in five Canadians suffers from a mental illness each year, and about two to three percent of Canadians are affected by seasonal affective disorder (SAD).

SAD is triggered by seasonal changes, often in late fall, and can cause feelings of sadness, lack of energy, loss of interest in usual activities, excessive sleep, and weight gain. .

WHAT IS BLUE MONDAY?

While the idea of ​​’Blue Monday’ was originally a marketing tactic by British travel company Sky Travel in 2005, it has since become the darkest day of the year for various reasons.

Factors like longer and colder nights, high post-holiday credit card bills, reduced social plans, and early days of SAD can make Mondays particularly difficult.

HOW TO PROTECT YOUR MENTAL HEALTH

While some may benefit from the motivation that comes from New Year’s resolutions, Cheng advises against putting too much pressure on new goals or making comparisons with others now.

“Don’t get bogged down in your New Year’s resolutions and draw comparisons on social media. Remember that we only see small glimpses of people’s achievements. Expect to fail sometimes,” she says. “And if you’re honest about your New Year’s resolutions, you can set realistic expectations for them.”

Cheng also urges people to reach out to their support system and stay connected.

“This can be accomplished by reaching out to friends, family or co-workers to set up lunch or coffee dates, or even consider making virtual connections.”

Joining a book club, for example, says Cheng, can become a positive outlet for people to learn how to share and better manage their feelings.

“It will help you build your emotional and mental resilience.”

In an article on the CAMH website, psychologist Dr. Katy Kamkar also meets people by taking stock of your habits and where you can make “simple but effective changes.”

“Meaningful daily activities like sleeping well, eating healthily, being physically active, setting a budget to control your spending habits are all practical and achievable goals that can help you feel more balanced,” says Kamkar.

To stay ahead of Blue Monday, Psychology Today recommends having a good bedtime the night before, going to bed early, and limiting blue light from screens.