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After weeks and months of festive anticipation, Christmas seems to disappear in a flash - and suddenly January hits us like a ton of bricks.

The lull following Christmas can be a pretty depressing time, what with cold weather, low funds, New Year resolutions and general lethargy after stuffing your face with goodies.

In fact, with the help of a slightly bizarre equation, one psychologist worked out exactly when the most miserable day of the year is.

That fateful day is called Blue Monday, and it has arrived.

What is Blue Monday?

Blue Monday is a name given to the day in January claimed to be the most depressing day of the entire year.

This day is typically the third Monday of the month, and this was worked out by psychologist Cliff Arnall, who came up with an equation based on the weather, debt, time since Christmas, time since failing New Year resolutions, and low levels of motivation.

When is it?

In 2018, Blue Monday is January 15.

How do I cheer myself up this January?

Funny you should ask, because we've got just the thing. Well, five things, to buck you up on the bluest of days.

1. Food, glorious food

Christmas is a time of (justified) self-indulgence, but January is the time to feed your mind and soul, as well as your body.

'Mood foods' are what you need - think foods rich in Omega 3 and Vitamin D, such as salmon, sardines, mackerel, nuts and seeds, egg yolks, and even beef liver.

Make sure you always eat breakfast, too. Attempting to lose weight by skipping meals will actually make it harder to shed the pounds.

It may sound bland after all that Christmas fare, but porridge is low-fat, filling, provides mood-friendly B vitamins, iron and zinc, and keeps blood glucose levels steady. And you can make it more interesting with seasonal fruits and nuts.

As the Zen saying goes: When you're hungry, eat. When you're tired, sleep.

2. Get moving

Curling up under the duvet might be tempting but studies have shown that getting up and putting your body through regular workouts can make you feel happier. The evidence shows exercise is an effective treatment for mild to moderate depression.



Thirty minutes of activity a day - even just a brisk walk - could help tackle the January bulge, too.

If you do something you find fun you'll be more likely to stick at it. Join a community sports team, go to a Strictly-style dance class, or be brave and set up a group yourself.

3. Spend time with people

Countless studies have linked good mental health with having good relationships and socialising regularly.

But at this time of year we're all too poor and depressed to go out. Fight back against this feeling - organise social dates, invite friends over for a coffee (cheaper than going out for one) join a club, or become a volunteer.

4. Recalibrate your sleep pattern

Christmas is the party season, and it's so easy to have several late (and boozy) nights in a row.

This means your sleep pattern is out of whack, and this can mess with your mood.

Sleep experts advise establishing a regular pattern of seven to eight hours per night. Keep your bedtime and waking times consistent to reset your body clock after all those Christmas parties.

5. Identify your worries

If you have specific things that are making you feel anxious or sad, make a list and add possible solutions.

If a solution is 'ask someone for help', do it! Writing things down helps.

You're not alone. Life is hard, and lots of people are going through the same feelings and hardships.

Take care of yourself, and reach out to people.