Blue Monday...
It could be the winter darkness, missing Christmas or anticipation of the year ahead – but the third Monday in January is known as the gloomiest day of the year. Whether you subscribe to this or not, it’s a reminder of the importance of taking care of your mental health and well-being, especially during the winter months. So here are a few ways to help you stay positive, strengthen your resilience and make Blue Monday a little more colourful.
• Get outside for some Vitamin D – Maximise your natural light/sunlight exposure by taking a walk during the day.
• Stay active – Taking regular physical exercise is still one of the best ways to improve mental health and reduce stress and anxiety.
• Sleep – Rest and good mental health go together.
• Prioritise Self-Care – Read a good book, meditate, listen to music or a podcast – do whatever makes you happy.
• Connect with others – Spending time with family and friends is vital for mental well-being.
• Help others – Doing volunteer work always lifts the spirit.
• Eat well – Get your ‘5 a day’ with healthy, cosy food like roasted veggies, hearty soups and delicious stewed fruits.
• Hydrate – Remove toxins from your body by drinking lots of water.
• De-clutter – Having a good clean out and tidy up can decrease stress and anxiety, improve sleep quality and boost creativity.
Make the most of your TTM benefits
Reach Out and Talk
We want to help you feel at your best and make it easier for you to ask for help if you are battling to cope. All TTM agency staff have access to TTM’s Employee Assistance Programme which provides valuable mental health support that is private, independent and confidential. The Programme offers you professional counselling and advice, and compassionate care – 24 hours a day, 7 days a week and 365 days a year.
Invest in Yourself
Enrolling in a course or learning a new skill can really boost your mood – and it’s a fantastic way to brighten those dark evenings. That’s where our Perks at Work programme comes in, designed to help you live a better, healthier and happier life. You can access over 100 virtual live and on-demand adult and children’s courses, on a host of different wellness and learning topics – from yoga, dance and nutrition to photography, Spanish lessons and chess. There are courses and videos to help you focus on your personal and professional development – such as Leadership Development and career goal setting.
Check in on Your Physical and Mental Health
If you’re not getting to the gym right now – why not hop on to the Digital Gym at the Laya Healthcare Your Wellbeing Portal? All TTM agency workers have FREE access to the Portal which focuses on supporting your physical and mental health as well as your own personal development. The Gym offers fitness classes, training plans, pilates, yoga and strength training and more. The Portal includes weekly seminars on different health and wellbeing topics, and there’s even a collection of great healthy recipes to make sure you eat well through winter. You’ll have plenty to read too: the Portal’s Content Hub includes features and online articles on lifestyle, health and family.
Treat Yourself
Sometimes a small treat or having something to look forward to, can really help. And it’s even better if you save money on it! Our Perks at Work Programme gives you access to great savings, rewards and discounts – with more than 30,000 discounts in over 20 different categories including electronics, food, fashion, travel and fitness. And from H&M to Booking.com - all your favourite brands are covered. Booking your summer holiday now could be just the boost you need.
