Miserable Monday - 22Nd January 2007
Psychologist Dr Cliff Arnalls has dubbed this Monday 22nd January 2007 ‘Miserable Monday’ thanks to a formula he created which considers debt, time elapsed since Christmas, failing New Year's resolutions & low motivation at work.
This had lead to fears that is could reflect on drivers thus making the roads more dangerous on this gloomy day. With January being the most miserable depressing month of the year latest research reveals that 48 per cent of drivers in Britain experience symptoms, including lethargy and sadness or depression, they blame on the time of year. Of these, one in ten admits their driving suffers as a result, with speeding and losing concentration the most common side effect.
Two fifths of drivers admit their symptoms are transformed into anger or irritation with other road users, slower reaction times and, for a minority, recklessness on the road.
Drivers have been warned not to let their depressing mood affect their driving and a list has been devised for cheering themselves up on this day.
My advice is to simply keep off the roads on Monday. Give yourself a day off, - stay in bed! Especially in the North East where 56% of drivers suffer seasonal symptoms.
Jackie Violet