A mental health charity is encouraging people to make small changes to improve their mood.
A mental health charity is encouraging people to stay positive with their 10 tips to beat the 'January Blues'.
Turn2Me published the list, featuring activities such as staying active, making time for fun and socialising.
The organisation is also warning people to watch out for signs of seasonal affective disorder, which can cause feelings of depression at certain times of the year, especially the winter months.
Turn2Me CEO, Tullamore's Fiona O'Malley says it's all about the small changes you can make to improve your mood:
The full list of tips can be found below:
- Stay active: Exercise has a significant impact on mental well-being. Engage in physical activities you enjoy, whether it's going to the gym, taking a walk, practicing yoga, or dancing. Regular exercise releases endorphins, which can boost your mood.
- Get out in nature: Many studies have outlined the benefit of ‘forest bathing’, nature walks, hiking, and gardening. Spend time around nature to benefit your mental health.
- Practice self-care: Take care of yourself by prioritising self-care activities. This could include getting enough sleep, eating nutritious foods, practicing relaxation techniques like meditation or deep breathing, and pampering yourself with activities you enjoy.
- Socialise: Even if it's tempting to hibernate during the winter, make an effort to socialise. Plan activities with friends or family, join clubs, or attend social events to combat feelings of isolation.
- Use the start of the year as an opportunity to explore new hobbies or activities. Learning something new can provide a sense of accomplishment and boost your mood.
- Travel: Plan a trip to have something to look forward to. This doesn’t have to be a lavish expensive holiday abroad; it can be a cheaper staycation in Ireland.
- Make time for fun: Incorporate enjoyable activities into your routine. Whether it's outdoor swimming, watching movies, reading books, cooking, or any other hobby you love, scheduling time for activities you find pleasurable can help lift your spirits.
- Practice gratitude and focus on the positives in your life. Keep a gratitude journal, where you write down things you're grateful for each day. Shifting your perspective towards positivity can improve your mood.
- Avoid toxic people: Cut out ‘energy vampires’ in your life. These are people who drain your energy with drama, manipulate, selfish or hurtful behaviour. If they’re family members that you can’t cut out of your life, reduce the time you spend with them.
- Seek professional help if needed: If you have feelings of anxiety or depression, don't hesitate to seek help from a mental health professional. Counselling can provide valuable support and guidance.
New Laois County Council Chief Exec Speaks Of "Honour & Privilege"
Pipe Bombs, Cocaine, Cannabis, And Cash Seized In Ballinasloe
Simplifying Refurbishment Grants A Priority For General Election Candidate
SIPTU Bord Na Móna Workers Say Recycling Company Is Up For Sale
Laois Boy's Fundraiser Reaches More Than Double Its Target
Nikita Hand Faced Brutal Cross-Examination In Civil Case - Laois Law Professor
Laois Candidate Defends Taoiseach Following Exchange With Carer
Westmeath Athletics Club To Publish Book to Mark 50th Anniversary
Westmeath Households Expected To Have Water Supply Restored Today
Government Must Recognise Carers - Sorca Clarke
Public Consultations On Westmeath Wind Farm Project Begin This Week
A Further 2,500 Westmeath Premises Can Connect To High Speed Broadband
Westmeath Business Attends Leading Business Tourism Conference
Portartlington Connector Bus Line To Be Discontinued
Midlands Parents Concerned Over A Lack Of Therapists In Special Schools
28% Of People In The Dublin Midlands Region Have A Medical Card
Comedy Gig Want To Show How Menopause Can Be Fun
Midlands Likely To Escape Worst Of Storm Bert's Rain
Peter Burke Points Finger At Finance Minister Over VAT Rate Saga
Laois Teen Found Safe And Well