The third Monday of January is said to be the saddest day of the year. Executive Director with the Suicide Prevention Resource Centre of Grande Prairie Gladys Blackmore says whether it is the lack of sunshine or credit card bills piling up, some people do get more sad than others around this time of year.
“We live in a dark place in the winter. People get the winter blues because we don’t get a lot of sunlight. We are indoors a lot breathing a lot of air with dust and that has a lack of oxygen if we are in a small office.”
She says making sure you are taking the right amount of vitamins, getting out to do some physical activity or staying connected with friends are ways to combat the winter blues.
“Blue Monday is simply a way to recognize we need to reach out to people. Check on people. Ask ‘how are you doing? Let’s go out and have a meal.’ Any type of social activity to get them more active.”
She says some people do need more help than others. She explains that outright asking someone if they are suicidal can help get the anxiety of the question out of the way. Resources for dealing with depression are available at the resource centre.