Finally, it is February, we’ve made it through what is considered the most depressing month of the year. But why is January so bleak for some? Is it because everyone is coming down from the highs of Christmas and New Year? It is reported that many, spend above their needs, using savings and credit cards to provide for their families during the festive period.
It can take the average person 4 months to get their finances back in shape after their Christmas spending, which is why we see such a decline in spending across the high street and hospitality sector in the first quarter of the year.
When I was writing this we’d just had ‘Blue Monday’ dubbed the most depressing day of the year. For many, including myself, we’ve already failed at our New Year resolution. If you’re normally paid on the last day of the month, you tend to get your salary a week earlier, so you have even less money to get by.
But, did you know Blue Monday was originally dreamed up by psychologist Dr Cliff Arnall in 2004 to help the travel industry sell more holidays. Now it has a different meaning altogether. You can be surrounded by people, and can still feel loneliness and isolation.
We need to check in sometimes with our colleagues, family members are friends. If you are feeling this or, have a few spare hours a week please consider volunteering at one of the many community groups that Lancaster and Morecambe have to offer.
Here are a few, The Friendship Centre, The Bay Volunteers, and St Thomas Church, plus there are many more out there. However, if you do not want to go to an organised event, we have launched Lancaster Against Loneliness, which takes place each Monday from 1am and 3pm at Marketgate Shopping Centre.
These drop-in sessions are free, there is no registration, no commitment, or expectations from those who attend. No one should feel alone in this great district with live, work and play in!
