AWARE NI: Blue Monday? Let’s Talk About Mental Health, Every Day ??
Every January, the third Monday of the month—this year, 20 January—is branded “Blue Monday” and called the most depressing day of the year. This started as a marketing campaign by a travel company in 2005. The truth is that depression isn’t confined to one day.
For many, January can feel heavy – with shorter days, colder nights, and the pressure of new-year-new-you messaging. Some people might experience dips in their mood and energy levels as winter draws in, but depression does not come and go within 24 hours.?For those living with depression or other mental health challenges even small daily tasks can feel overwhelming. Depression is a real and complex illness, not something to “snap out of” or solve with a quick fix.
At AWARE NI, we’re reclaiming Blue Monday as a chance to remind ourselves that mental health matters every day of the year.
Whether you’re feeling okay, struggling to keep going, or somewhere in between, here are small ways to take care of yourself and support others when things feel hard:
1. Be Gentle With Yourself
If brushing your teeth, making your bed, or getting dressed feels like an achievement today—celebrate that. Self-care doesn’t need to look like big changes or ticking off endless goals. Start small, it all counts, and remember that 1% beats 0%.
2. Connect In A?Way That Works For You
Reaching out to others can feel impossible when you’re low, but a simple message—“Hey, I’m thinking about you”—can create connection without pressure. And if someone reaches out to you, it’s okay to take your time to respond.
3. Step Outside, Even For A Moment
If you feel able, getting some fresh air can lift your mood, even if it’s just standing by an open window or stepping outside the front door. Every little bit of daylight helps as we move toward brighter days.
4. Remember Help Is Out There
You’re not alone, and there’s no shame in asking for help. If you’re struggling, we’re here for you. Email us at [email protected] or reach out to a trusted friend, family member, or healthcare provider.
AWARE NI's mental health support groups are here to offer a safe and understanding space for anyone struggling with mental ill-health. Whether you're dealing with anxiety, depression, bipolar or finding it difficult to cope, our peer-led groups provide a place to share, connect, and feel supported. ?
You are not alone - AWARE NI is here to help. Our support groups are free to attend, have no waiting lists, and open to anyone aged 18 or over.
To find your nearest support group please visit: aware-ni.org/support-groups
To learn more about the signs and symptoms of depression please click here.
Creating a Mentally Healthy Workplace Seminar
Join AWARE NI for a Not-So-Blue Monday! ??
We're hosting a FREE Breakfast Seminar to explore the benefits of creating a mentally healthy workforce. Discover how prioritising mental health can positively impact your employees and your business!
?? Date: Monday, 20th January 2025
?? Location: Everglades Hotel, Derry/Londonderry
Places are limited, so be sure to secure your spot today!
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Registration closes Monday 13th at 11am - if you'd like to be added to the reserve list after registration closes please email: [email protected]
Let's Talk About the Impact of Cancer & Mental Health Public Talk
Join AWARE NI, Macmillan Cancer Support, MindWise and The Royal College of Psychiatrists for an insightful event where we'll explore the impact that cancer can have on mental health and wellbeing, and highlight some of the support services available within the local area.
?? Date: Monday 3rd February 6:30pm - 9pm
?? Location: Europa Hotel, Belfast
This event is designed for individuals with lived experience of cancer, as well as their family members and friends who are interested in learning more about the support services available locally.
We'll have a range of guest speakers delivering short presentations followed by a Q&A session.
Click here to register for free. Spaces are limited.
GIANT STEPS 2025 and More Fundraising Opportunities!
?? Step into the new year by taking GIANT STEPS for mental health! On Saturday, 17 May, join AWARE NI and choose to hike 7, 13, or 20 miles along the breathtaking Causeway Coastline.
Start 2024 with purpose and help raise funds for vital mental health support across Northern Ireland ??
Register now and make every step count ?? aware-ni.org/giant
If Giant Steps doesn't seem like your cup of tea, check out our other fundraising challenges for 2025 by clicking here, or email [email protected] to get in touch with your own fundraising ideas!
We are back with our popular mental health poetry competition, 'Express Yourself,' open to ALL Primary Schools in Northern Ireland for P6 & P7 pupils.?
With a single click of the link below, you can register your school and will automatically?be sent a link to?download the Express Yourself Poem Pack.
Prizes include an AWARE NI?Paws b mindfulness course for the winning school and ￡150/￡100/￡50 Amazon Gift Vouchers for the top 3 winners!
But that's not all… this competition has a legacy…?
The top 10 winning poems will be turned into a children's mental health book featuring advice from AWARE NI and will be sent out to all participating schools and community libraries.? You've read that right - pupils will have the opportunity to become published authors!
AND when you're starting those mental health conversations in the classroom and writing your poems we would LOVE if you embraced the colour yellow and participated in 'Shine Bright, Glow Yellow' one of our main fundraising campaigns for schools.