As January 20th, 2025, approaches, the idea of “Blue Monday” looms large for many. Dubbed the “most depressing day of the year,” this term has sparked curiosity, debate, and even a touch of scepticism since its conception. But what exactly is Blue Monday, and why does it continue to resonate nearly two decades after its creation?
What Is Blue Monday?
Back in 2005, psychologist Dr. Cliff Arnall coined the term “Blue Monday”. He even came up with a formula to calculate it, taking into account things like bad weather, leftover holiday debt, the fading glow of Christmas, failed New Year’s resolutions, and low motivation levels.
While his formula has been widely dismissed as pseudoscience, the concept caught on. It seemed to put a name to that universal post-holiday slump—the mix of winter blues and life’s pressures that many of us feel in January.
Why January 20th?
Blue Monday lands on the third Monday of January, which in 2025 is January 20th. By then, the holiday cheer feels like a distant memory, the bills from all that holiday shopping have started rolling in, and those ambitious New Year’s resolutions might already be unravelling. Combine that with the cold, dark days of winter, and you’ve got a recipe for some serious blahs.
Is It Really the “Most Depressing” Day?
Let’s be real: calling one day the “most depressing” is a bit much. But the feelings behind it are very real. Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD), for instance, affects millions of people, especially in the winter when sunlight is scarce. Add financial stress and the pressure to achieve big goals, and it’s no wonder January feels heavy.
Mental health experts agree that it’s not helpful to pin all this on a single day. But they also say the attention on Blue Monday can be a good way to start conversations about mental health and encourage people to seek help if they’re struggling.
How to Beat the Blues
If Blue Monday (or January in general) has you feeling down, there are some simple ways to lift your spirits. Here are a few ideas:
- Get Moving: Exercise can work wonders for your mood. Even a quick walk outside can make a difference.
- Find the Light: Natural sunlight boosts your mood, so get outside if you can. If not, a light therapy lamp can help.
- Stay Connected: Chat with friends, family, or coworkers. A little social interaction can go a long way.
- Take Small Steps: Break down big tasks into smaller, doable ones to feel a sense of accomplishment.
- Focus on the Good: Practice gratitude by noticing the positives in your life, no matter how small they seem.