Modern Dilemmas: Thinking positive to drive out the blues

Dear Alex – Since January began I have had an ever increasing feeling of depression. There isn't a lot to look forward to in my life at the moment, all I seem to do is go to work and come home again in the dark. I can't really afford to go out because I have racked up considerable debt in the last year which I really need to sort out. How can I pick myself up and get through it?
By The Newsroom
Published 21st Jan 2010, 10:29 BST
Updated 21st Jan 2010, 10:29 BST

Firstly, you're not alone. There are many people in this country right now feeling exactly the same way as you do. January can be a hard month to cope with as all the excitement of Christmas and New Year is a fading memory, except for the bills, while spring is still so far off that it could be said there isn't much to be cheery about. Funnily enough, this Monday was officially the most miserable day of the year, nicknamed "Blue Monday"!

The sheer drudgery of long dark days and little sun doesn't help either, so what you need is a way to feel better quickly, an instant pick-me-up that you can do at any time to increase your energy levels and make yourself feel happier. Sometimes a small boost is all we need and it doesn't have to be big. The key is to keep it simple so start by thinking about what you like instead of what you don't like. Simple, yes, but very effective. This is because our thoughts are very powerful and if we are constantly thinking negatively then we will make life a struggle.

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There is, of course, the temptation to keep on moaning and indeed some people do this. But if you want to see some positive changes despite having circumstances that probably can't change, then you need to be the one who makes the difference. We are the masters of our own destiny.

You can take this a stage further by creating ways to fit into your schedule fun things to do. Start with what's easy to organise and build from there. Once several are in place you'll find that they make a huge difference to your overall feeling of wellbeing. Once you start to do this regularly and get good at it, you'll soon find that you begin to think and act this way automatically. Now you're on the road to beating the blues no matter what your circumstances are. Taking control of your thoughts and actions will not only change the way you feel, it is the most effective action you can take.

Alexandra Watson, Leading Happiness Coach, best-selling author and Co-Founder of National Happiness Day, helps celebrities, Olympic athletes and business professionals with dilemmas and personal issues. www.Alexandra Watson.com