A message from your NC Wellness Watch Committee:
Dr. Cliff Arnall, a Cardiff University psychologist, devised a formula to explain why Jan. 22 is the most depressing day of the year. He takes into account six factors: weather, debt, time since Christmas, time since failing our new year’s resolutions, low motivational levels, and the feeling of a need to take action.
This year, Jan. 22 happens to fall on a Wednesday – decidedly better than a Monday, which historically boasts the highest instances of suicide.
Helpful strategies to combat the blues include spending less and starting your Christmas shopping earlier to spread out the expense; taking up a hobby in January, preferably something physical; and re-acquainting yourself with the resources available in your community – book clubs, public libraries, walking trails, poetry readings and other things that are free or low cost.
Research shows that people are generally happier and more optimistic as their need for material possessions dwindles (the Freestyle Happiness index). We all know how exhausting (not to mention expensive) keeping up with the Jones’ is so stop trying.
Think about what you really need in your life, what can be re-used and re-fashioned. Trade items with friends and family members, and consider giving the gift of time – agree to watch your sister’s kids for an evening or offer to cook a lovely dinner for your parents; barter with a friend who wants you to help paint by having them help you with a fundraiser bake sale you are running. Even better, consider putting together a basket for a needy family at Christmas with some of the money you might have spent. I guarantee you, it will feel better in December and even more so in January when you don’t have huge credit card bills coming in. And, on or around January 22nd, invite some friends over, make it potluck and watch an old movie you rented from the library for free.
In the end, all we really need in our lives is love, laughter, health, a warm bed and enough food to fill our tummies. Remember, more than three million Canadians live in poverty and, in the Niagara region alone, there are 5,400 children living in poverty. Let’s all be thankful for what we have.
Written by Monique Morin, graduate consultant, Co-op and Graduate Services
