So apparently today is now known as "Blue Monday". The third Monday of January shall forever be labelled as the most depressing day of the year.
However, let's not forget, it was created as a PR opportunity to sell holidays rather than any study conducted in mental health. But do they have a point?
I'll be honest, I am feeling in a low mood today and I am not really sure why. You read me correctly, counsellors have feelings too! I spend a lot of time working with clients to try and help them feel better and I love the work that I do but sometimes I just need time for myself. I am an advocate for sometimes putting yourself first, evaluating toxic relationships and ensuring your voice can be heard. On a day like today let's try especially hard to ensure we can do all of these things.
Sounds really easy doesn't it? I acknowledge that just because you see it written down or say it to yourself out loud it doesn't mean you can make that change, you'd be doing it already. But does that mean you can't start doing it? Absolutely not!
This is where counselling can be really beneficial. If you feel like you're struggling physically you'd go to a Doctor, if it's a financial issue you'd go to a bank manager, but why do we still carry a stigma if the problems we face are emotionally led?
I am going to share something with you that may surprise you, I don't have a cure. I can't eradicate anxiety, I can't make depression disappear and I can't make anger cease to exist. As much as I would love to say I could I'd be lying to you, and myself, so be wary of anyone that says that they can. I'd want to know why they weren't on a yacht somewhere proclaiming themselves to be the richest person in the world as they've found the cure to negative emotions.
What I can do is offer you a confidential, judgement free and empathetic space in which to talk and work through your issues. I can help you understand the root cause of those issues and build your emotional tolerance in a helpful and clearer way.
My key message is simple; look after yourself, not just today, but every day as it's no less than what we all deserve.
P.S For the rest of today I am going to cuddle my dog, eat something yummy and have a nice bath after watching too many episodes of The Golden Girls. It's my idea of bliss!
Take care everyone x