KICK this common habit that becomes more common in January, worsens winter blues, and is as bad for your health as smoking.
As we head towards Blue Monday, the most depressing day of the year on January 19, more and more people may be struggling to beat the low feeling accompanying what feels like an endless month of dark days.
U.S.-based physician and Bespoke Concierge MD CEO Dr Zaid Fadul has told The U.S. Sun that the “solo” habit that people tend to pick up more after the holidays is worsening the winter drudgery.
The former U.S. Air Force flight surgeon who has helped active-duty service members deal with mental health struggles like stress and burnout, says that the behavior “makes your mood tank” and reveals how to help.
Throughout the year and especially during winter, you should avoid “flying solo,” he says.
While time alone is important, “humans aren’t built for isolation and when you withdraw from friends and family, your mood tanks.”
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“Research shows loneliness damages your health as much as smoking 15 cigarettes a day,” Dr Fadul warned, citing a report from US Surgeon General Dr Vivek Murthy.
“January makes this worse due to cold weather, dark evenings, and post-holiday fatigue.”
In 2023, Dr Murthy said that the country is experiencing a loneliness epidemic that is costing the health industry billions of dollars every year.
An 81-page report revealed that young people aged between 15 and 24 are being hit especially hard and that loneliness increases the risk of premature death by almost 30%.
“We now know that loneliness is a common feeling that many people experience. It’s like hunger or thirst,” Dr Murthy said.
“It’s a feeling the body sends us when something we need for survival is missing.”
To help combat this issue, especially as we head towards Blue Monday, Dr Fadul recommends reconnecting but without putting too much pressure on it.
“Connect without pressure. Send a quick text: ‘Thinking of you.’” he said.
“Schedule a 15-minute phone call with one friend. Join a low-key group activity: a walking club, a book group, or a community fitness class.
“Even small interactions count. The goal isn’t to become a social butterfly; it’s to remind yourself you’re not alone.”
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