For many, January can be the first page of a new adventure; a fresh start filled with resolutions, for others it can be the most depressing time of the year.

January is a cold and (usually) wet month and the festivities leave us feeling sluggish and tired after over indulging and not enough sleep.  With many weeks of build up to the big day, it’s no surprise many are left feeling down in the dumps after the party season.

Here are a few tips to help you get through the first month of the year:

1. Have something to look forward to

Whether this means booking a holiday, organising a weekend away with friends or looking into doing something new, having something to look forward to can do you the world of good but releasing positive endorphins of excitement and anticipation.

2. Ask yourself what is making you feel down

January really is a fresh start for many and if you are feeling overwhelmed, take a step back and consider what is making you feel like that.  It may be your job, friends, a family situation or even money troubles.  Whatever the reason, acknowledging your problems is the first step to resolving them and you may find the solution is right before you.

3. Schedule ‘me’ time

After a hectic December, make sure you schedule in some ‘me’ time.  January is typically the month when people live quieter as they attempt to settle into diets, exercise regimes and getting their finances back on track after Christmas.  Take this opportunity to live quietly – go for a bath, read a book or listen to some music.  Do what makes you happy and reflect on the positives in your life.

4. Say No

We live in a world that never stops and often dictates that we should always be ‘switched on’.  But saying yes all the time can leave us frustrated and under pressure so next time before you commit, think about the impact of saying yes.  By declining, you aren’t being rude or selfish, you are simply honouring your current commitments and choosing the right path for you.

5. Go for a walk

Take a walk during the day, in the natural light.  It doesn’t need to be for long – 20 to 30 minutes, whatever you can manage.  The fresh air and exercise will encourage endorphins which will naturally lighten your mood and make you feel better.

At Dumfries and Galloway Advocacy Service we look upon January as the start of something new and exciting.  We have lot’s coming up this year which we are already preparing for but we are always mindful of how January can make people feel.  We try and stick to these tips to enhance our mood and see us into February – we hope that they will help you too if you are finding this month particularly difficult.