Why Blue Monday could herald a new beginning

Jan. 17, 2011 - PRLog -- However, an expert from the Chelmsford Medical Centre says it can actually be the perfect time to look to the future with hope and positivity.

James Roast specialises in Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), a treatment which changes the pattern of negative thoughts and actions to create a brighter outlook.  His clients are helped to improve their emotional well-being and overcome behavioural difficulties through practicing established CBT methods.

Mr Roast explained that the term Blue Monday - the fourth Monday of each January - was coined by psychologist Cliff Arnell who identified it as the most depressing day of the year.  “He created a formula taking into account such things as bleak weather conditions, personal debt levels, failure of New Year’s resolutions, lack of bank holidays and the time elapsed since Christmas,” he said. “This can clearly have a very negative effect on people, but by using some simple CBT techniques to think more positively, this can be turned on its head.”

For example, he says that someone who has embarked upon a New Year’s diet should not throw in the towel when they have had a moment of weakness.  Mr Roast explained: “We need to challenge our negative thinking at these times.  Ordinarily, we might think that we have broken our entire resolution by eating a single biscuit at lunchtime, and call ourselves a failure.  But of course this is not true – we just need to move on and start afresh with our healthy eating goals.”

Another tip is to think of targets which are SMART – specific, measurable, attainable, realistic and time-framed.  “Otherwise, we are almost certain to fall short of our goals,” said Mr Roast.  “Rather than saying you are going to eat nothing but healthy food this year, or that you are going to attend the gym every day, give yourself more achievable targets that you are more likely to stick to.”  

He added: “January 24 might be termed Blue Monday, but if we think positively, we can see that it is a great opportunity to consider what you want to achieve over the coming year.”

Chelmsford Medical Centre on New London Road offers a range of health and cosmetic treatments, including day case and minimally invasive surgery. For further information about the Chelmsford Medical Centre, visit www.chelmsfordmedical.co.uk.

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