I love both my jobs – as a full-time media relations manager and as a correspondent-at-large for CU Times. Regardless of how much I like either of my jobs, life can often feel like Groundhog Day, a continuous loop of getting up, going to work, going home, going to the gym, making dinner, doing more work, sleeping and then repeating.

The repetition can be unnerving. Life can be hard. We all know this, and when so much of your day is spent with your co-workers, a positive and fun work environment can be what makes or breaks your mood, day, week or even career (no exaggeration). My monotony is often broken by the strong friendships I've formed in both my jobs.

Last year I wrote a column about how workplace friendships can help you maintain sanity and boost productivity. As I dive into the New Year, I want to renew my focus on mental health and explore the benefits of workplace friendships in depth.