Beating the January Blues at Bridgewater Home Care

January 22, 2025


As we navigate through the chilly month of January, many of us might be feeling a bit down. The third Monday in January, often termed ‘Blue Monday’, which this year was on Monday 20th January, is said to be when many people feel low due to a combination of cold or dark weather, post-Christmas blues, and low motivation.

Blue Monday has, in recent years, become a talking point for mental health awareness.

This year, we’ve turned Blue Monday on it’s head, by getting involved with Brew Monday! Brew Monday is an annual campaign organised by the Samaritans to challenge the concept of “Blue Monday” and promote mental health awareness. Held on the third Monday of January , Brew Monday encourages people to connect with friends, family, and colleagues over a cup of tea or coffee

The campaign aims to:

  1. Dispel the myth of “Blue Monday” being the most depressing day of the year
  2. Remind people that feeling low can happen any day, not just in January
  3. Promote social connections and support mental wellbeing

Key aspects of Brew Monday include:

  • Encouraging people to reach out and have meaningful conversations
  • Volunteers handing out teabags and chatting with people at train stations and other public places
  • Organising virtual or in-person events where people can come together for a cuppa and a catch-up
  • Raising funds for Samaritans to support their work in suicide prevention and mental health support

 

A Warm Welcome on a Cold Day

This ‘Brew Monday’, we invited our team to join us for a cosy get-together. The office provided an array of refreshments including tea and coffee, sweet treats, biscuits and cakes. It was great to see our staff members taking a moment to relax, chat, and connect with one another.

This simple gesture of coming together over a cup of tea proved to be a powerful way to combat the January blues. It provided an opportunity for our team to catch up, share experiences, offer support, and simply enjoy each other’s company.

Supporting Our Team’s Wellbeing

At Bridgewater Home Care, we believe that our employees are our greatest asset. Their wellbeing is paramount to us, and we strive to create a supportive and nurturing work environment throughout the year.

We have an open door policy, which enables and encourages our team to come in for a chat, no matter how small or large their concern might be. We encourage open collaboration and provide a supportive work environment.

On joining us, our team receive a Well-being handbook which outlines everything we can support them with, both personally and professionally, and takes them through the processes of how they receive this support from their Management team.

We also actively engage in feel-good well-being sessions, from lunch time walks, charity fundraisers, exercise classes and yoga, to catch ups and social – we are always ensuring our team can content with one another at a variety of events.

Comprehensive Training and Development

We invest considerably in our staff’s training and welfare. We have developed a vast array of further development courses that our team have access to complete to enhance their skills and knowledge.

We work with our team to help them achieve their professional goals, whether that be working towards a qualification or building their experience to achieve the next role in their career progression.

Mental Health Support

Recognising the importance of mental health, we’ve taken steps to provide additional support. Each Bridgewater Home Care office has a Mental Health champion who is our team’s point of contact to discuss any mental health related issues or concerns.

Combating Seasonal Affective Disorder While Working

While Bridgewater Home Care takes proactive steps to support our team’s wellbeing, we also recognize that individuals can take action to manage Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) symptoms in their everyday lives throughout the winter months. Here are some effective strategies to combat SAD while on the job:

Maximise Light Exposure

Make the most of natural light during your workday. If possible, position your workspace near a window and keep blinds open, or if you’re out and about in the community take time during breaks to ensure you’re getting some natural light outdoors.

Take Outdoor Breaks

Encourage yourself to step outside during breaks, even for short periods. A brief walk during lunch can increase your exposure to natural light and boost vitamin D levels. This simple act can invigorate both body and mind, potentially matching the efficacy of medication in managing SAD symptoms.

Maintain a Healthy Routine

Establish a consistent sleep schedule and prioritise a balanced diet. Regular exercise, especially outdoors, can significantly improve mood and energy levels.

Consider incorporating physical activity into your workday, such as stretching exercises or a quick workout in the morning or evening.

Create a Supportive Work Environment

Personalise your workspace to create a more uplifting atmosphere. Use warm, bright colours, and consider adding plants, which can improve mood and air quality.

Practice Mindfulness and Stress Management

Incorporate stress-reduction techniques into both your work and home routine. This could include short meditation sessions, deep breathing exercises, or even using mindfulness apps during breaks.

These practices can help manage the symptoms of SAD and improve overall mental wellbeing.

Stay Connected with Colleagues

Combat feelings of isolation by maintaining regular contact with your team. Participate in social events, or engage in conversations and catch ups with colleagues during breaks. Social connections can provide emotional support and help alleviate some of the symptoms of SAD.

 

Remember, whether it’s Blue Monday or any other day of the year, it’s important to take care of your mental health. If you’re feeling down, don’t hesitate to reach out to someone. At Bridgewater Home Care, we’re always here to support our team and our community.