Almost half of Brits have described January as "the most depressing month of the year", a survey has revealed.

The survey of over 1,000 people, showed that 48 per cent of under 25 year olds are struck by the 'January blues', whilst 59 per cent said January was the most difficult month to get out of bed, the Daily Mail reports.

"Cabin Fever is a real phenomenon that takes place during the dark winter months, particularly January," Behavioural Psychologist Donna Dawson said. "The lack of sunlight can make us feel lethargic and depressed and the lack of exercise and the fact that we are cooped up in a stuffy, centrally-heated house can make us feel stressed. Add boredom to the mix, alongside any financial issues and too much empty time with our partners and you have the perfect recipe for arguments and consequent break-ups."

It was also discovered that couples spend on average, eight minutes arguing every day, whilst results show two thirds of British couples break up in January.

65 per cent of respondents have also blamed the weather for causing permanent bad moods, whilst many agreed that a lack of daylight, plus having to 'tighten their belts' after Christmas resulted in feeling "edgy, irritable and stressed".

Jacky Brown from Sheilas' Wheels Home Insurance, who were behind the survey, said: "The miserable weather, dark nights and lack of cash means we're spending more time at home during January and this can put a strain on our relationships."

"Getting regular exercise, arranging to see friends and family and taking up a new hobby can all help to keep spirits high during January. Londoners spend the most amount of time arguing with their partners in January at 24 arguments, averaging 13 minutes each day compared to those in the North East who spend just two minutes arguing each day."

The recently released report on the 'Independent Review of Sickness Absence' said that education is the third highest sector in terms of prevalence of work-related stress, anxiety and depression. All too often Teacher Support Network comes across teachers with preventable mental health conditions, as well as other health and wellbeing issues through the services we provide.

In the spring issue of our Supporter magazine, we discuss our plan to investigate whether low teacher health and wellbeing has a knock-on effect on school pupils.

To read more about our investigation into teacher wellbeing click here, or alternatively read The Supporter and sign up for your free copy here.

If your health and wellbeing have been affected this January, or if you are feeling stressed, depressed or anxious, call our free, confidential Support Line on 08000 562 561 (England) or 08000 855 088 (Wales) for information and advice.

Alternatively, for hints and tips on improving or maintaining a healthy, happy lifestyle, try these links:

• Managing your health through physical activity
• A new year, a new start!
• How to sleep well