AS WE approach the end of January I hope your New Year’s resolutions are going well and you’re feeling positive and motivated.

This time of year can be particularly difficult and January 21 (‘Blue Monday’) is often considered the most depressing day of the year. It’s cold and dark, summer is far away and your bank balance is running on empty after the holidays.

Everyone experiences low points in their life, but the truth is that for some people depression is a year-round struggle.

Men in particular can find it extremely difficult to talk about emotional problems and it remains a sad fact that suicide is the biggest killer of men under fifty.

There are many signs that someone is depressed and, with 1 in 4 of us likely to experience it, it’s important to know what to look out for in those you care about.

If someone seems withdrawn, tired, or irritable, is reluctant to attend social engagements and is drinking more, or putting on or losing weight, ask them how they’re doing.

Many of us respond on reflex that we’re fine when asked, so if you’re worried about someone, ask twice and let them know you’re there.

If you’re struggling, one of the best things you can do is stay active and keep doing the things you enjoy, even if it’s just getting yourself some fresh air before the walls start to close in. Taking things one step at a time and rewarding yourself for those little achievements is a great place to start. Practicing some form of mindfulness will help you re-tune your mind by allowing you to let go of some of the negative thoughts that you really don’t need.

There’s no shame in admitting that you’re struggling. The stronger you are the more you’ve probably jammed the cork in. Don’t bottle it up, try reaching out to those around you or talk to your GP – mental health is just as important as your physical health. The Samaritans are available on 116 123, 24 hours a day if you need to talk and you can also contact Andover Mind on 01264 332 297, or italk on 023 8038 3920, for advice on local groups and services that are there to support you.

Pulling up the drawbridge and retreating into yourself may seem like the most desirable option, but it’s often the worst thing you can do.

Dr Jeff Stoker is a local GP at the Bermuda and Marlowe Practice in Basingstoke, with over 20 years’ experience in the NHS.