We all know those January blues, right? That period where the excitement of Christmas is over and work is back in full swing, with the pressure of the new year lying heavily on your shoulders.
It can sometimes feel like you’re alone in feeling this way – but it’s important to remember you’re not.
As we return back to uni, here are some ideas on how to beat those blues, and why January is the perfect time to start making a change.
Societies are a lifesaver
Last January was my first at university, and I quickly learned it wasn’t as easy as I’d expected! The cold, dark days seemed to drain my motivation to get outside, stay active and socialise.
Without anyone around to really push me, I found myself stuck in a bit of a rut until a friend mentioned joining the society for my course – Psychology.
We all know societies are a big part of university, and I’m sure that you have joined more than one.
In my first term, I got involved too – though, I’ll admit, it mostly ended up being Wednesday night Ocean socials.
It was a fun way to connect, even if I wasn’t fully tapping into the sense of community yet. My friend mentioned getting more involved in societies – which we did.
We went for coffees, walks, studies sessions – and it was great. I felt like I’d committed to something that would get me out of bed on those cold, wet days, especially because I felt a sense of community when hanging out with them.
Of course, friends were always around at university, but we all have different schedules and routines. Having those weekly get-togethers with the Psychology Society was a game-changer.
Find something you enjoy
If you feel as though you’ve had enough of your course after doing your fair share of lectures and seminars that is completely fine!
After getting involved with the Psychology Society, I started looking for other things to join and that’s when I discovered the Yoga society – something I’d always loved back home but hadn’t found time (or space!) for since moving to university.
This gave me another reason to get out of bed, move my body, and relax. My advice – keep it simple and find something you enjoy.
There are always big, popular societies, and if that’s your thing, that’s great. For me, though, the most important thing was the sense of community – being part of a group of people with similar interests, all stepping out of our dorms to do something that made us feel good.
Whether it’s knitting, singing, dancing, painting, or anything else, I can’t overstate how much of a difference it made in getting through one of the toughest months of the year.
And finally, if you’re reading this, you’ve already discovered Platform Magazine – an incredible experience offered by NTU that’s had a real impact on me.
I’ve found it a great way to stay connected, stay informed and for students to express themselves in so many different ways.
It’s been another important part of my university experience, helping me stay engaged and motivated, especially during those more challenging months.
January can often feel lonely, but what I’ve learned is this – the more you immerse yourself in the people and societies around you, the more you’ll realise you’re not alone in the blues.
Getting involved with great people and activities that lift your spirits will make time fly by and before you know it the grey winter days will give way to sunshine and clear blue skies.
So, take that first step – explore the wide range of societies and find your community, and let this January be the start of something great.
Featured Image: Diya Khera for Platform