Blue Monday is here !

Blue Monday is here!?

It is believed to be the most depressing day of the year. What exactly is Blue Monday and are there any ways of helping us deal with it?

When is Blue Monday and what exactly is it??

Blue Monday is on the 16th of January this year. The term was first used in 2005 by the psychologist, Dr Cliff Arnall. The day was named based on the calculation of several factors that contribute to low moods such as cold weather, amount of natural light, debt, and the end of the holiday period. The label caught on and since then we have seen the term Blue Monday being used every year.?

Whilst many psychologists dismiss Blue Monday as a myth, and whether or not a particular day can be classed as the most depressing day of the year, we all know January can be challenging for our mental health and wellbeing.?

What makes Blue Monday/January so challenging??

Several factors can contribute to and exacerbate low mood in January e.g:?

• Failed New Year’s resolutions??
• Cold weather??
• Financial factors such as an extra-long month until payday and worrying about debt accumulated over the holiday.
• Lack of natural sunlight – travelling to work in the dark and returning home in the dark??
• Fewer social activities planned??
• Guilt about overindulgence during the Christmas period??

What about Blue Monday 2023??

Blue Monday 2023 has the potential to be especially challenging for people this year given the ongoing cost of living crisis. So, what can we do to support each other through this challenging time?

Here are 8 tips – but be aware that everyone is different. What may suit and work for you may not suit others. The key is to do what you enjoy and what makes you feel comfortable. Most important of all is to look after yourself and others and not be afraid to ask for help.

• Care for and look out for each other – we do not always recognise signs of struggling in ourselves and rely on others to spot signs of stress such as changes in behaviour or character
• Talk to those you feel comfortable with e.g. friends, family, Line Manager or colleagues about things that may be troubling you
• Eat healthily – link to Veganuary
• Read a book
• Take time out for yourself
• Set yourself achievable goals
• Socialise and spend time with others
• Practice mindfulness – apps such as Headspace are great for this.

By Jane Hopkinson , Culture Consultant, SMRS