NHS 24 is encouraging people to take some time for themselves this month to boost their mood with many feeling down after the busy festive period.
Suggestions to improve mental wellbeing range from healthy eating to cutting down on alcohol and beginning a new fitness class.
And the Breathing Space helpline has been flagged up as a source of support.
NHS 24 medical director Professor George Crooks said: “Dark mornings, winter chills, money worries, debt, bereavement, a relationship breakdown – a range of things can make someone feel down, especially at this time of the year.
“Of course, there are lots of things people can do to improve their mood. From taking up a new exercise to trying out some new healthy and nutritious recipes.”
He added: “But sometimes thoughts and feelings can overwhelm us. It’s always better to talk about your anxieties or stresses sooner rather than later.
“So don’t let problems get out of hand, phone Breathing Space where experienced advisors will listen and offer advice. The advisors come from a range of mental health, counselling and social work backgrounds and try to make it easier to talk about what you’re going through.”
Breathing Space: 0800 83 85 87 (open Monday to Thursday 6 pm to 2 am and from Friday 6 pm, to Monday 6 am
