Blue Monday – Some tips on coping with a tough time of year!

Lara Watson looks into some ideas for helping with what can be a very hard time of the year in particularly cold weather in January…with the third Monday of January dubbed “Blue Monday..” January’s third Monday, called Blue Monday, is often considered the most depressing day of the year due to: Cold weather and lack of sunlight Financial strain from holiday spending Unmet expectations 1 in 5 Canadians struggle with mental health issues like depression and anxiety. What we can do to help ourselves and others: Practice healthy lifestyle habits (exercise, good nutrition, vitamins, sunshine, get good, sleep, meditate on God’s word, Spend time in a supportive community Seek counseling or talk to a doctor Use prescribed medication if needed Turn to Scripture for encouragement and peace Favorite Bible verse: Philippians 4:6-7: “Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.”