How to boost your mood

Low mood can strike at any time of year, but many of us find the winter months – and January in particular – more difficult. 

January is a month of cold weather and dark nights. For many of us, it feels like there isn’t much to look forward to. Worries about our health or finances – especially if we made resolutions we couldn’t stick to – could all be affecting us. So what can you do if you need a mood boost?

Five steps to mental wellbeing

NHS Choices talks about the five steps to mental wellbeing. These are scientifically proven ways to improve your mood, and are excellent advice at any time of year. The five steps are:

·         Connect

·         Be active

·         Keep learning

·         Give to others

·         Be Mindful – or take notice

Things to try

A new hobby can help you tick off a few of the steps in one go. If you take up a new class at the gym, you could be learning, meeting people and being active all at the same time. Crafts are also a great way to learn a new skill, as well as being mindful activities (meaning you’re in the moment while you’re doing them).

You might think you’re not the type of person who goes to the gym or does a craft – but the beauty of trying something new is that you might just surprise yourself. Some ideas are:

·         Cooking

·         Running

·         Crochet or knitting

·         Walking

·         Adult colouring

·         Yoga

·         Volunteering

Small things

A good night’s sleep can do us the world of good, so make sure you’re getting your rest. If you’re having trouble sleeping, NHS Choices have some great tips for better sleep.

Having something to look forward to can also improve our mood. In a way this is the opposite of being mindful, so be happy to know these things are coming up, rather than counting down the days! But something as simple as having a date in the diary to catch up with a friend can help.

What are your top tips for lifting your mood? Let us know in the comments!

If you are struggling with your mental health, make sure you speak to your GP. You can also speak to the Samaritans 24 hours a day, for free, on 116 123 in the UK.