Each year on the third Monday in January, people start to feel what is known as ‘Blue Monday’—the supposed gloomiest day of the year. But this concept isn’t based in science. So what is Blue Monday, and how can you beat it? Learn more about this holiday, its roots, and get tips to turn around your mood.
What is Blue Monday?
Blue Monday is a colloquial term for the third Monday of January, which has become known as the “most depressing day” of the year. It originated in 2005 with a press release from Sky Travel about how people feel during the first month of the year. The idea behind Blue Monday is that people’s post-holiday blues, combined with cold weather and other factors, can make this time of year one of low moods and difficult emotions.
Tips to Avoid feeling Down on Blue Monday…
On Blue Monday, it’s important to look after yourself and make your own mental health a priority.
There are a few tips you can try to boost your mood and beat the winter blues.
- Make sure that you get enough rest and exercise, as both of these activities can benefit your physical and mental health.
- Get plenty of fresh air and sunshine – even if it’s cold outside, natural sunlight stimulates our bodies and boosts serotonin levels, which helps lift our mood.
- Take time for yourself by participating in activities that make you happy such as talking to friends or writing in a journal.
- Lastly, try to stay positive by focusing on the good things in life, rather than dwelling on negative thoughts.
Mental Health Support for Blue Monday and Beyond…
If you find yourself feeling overwhelmed or experiencing a bit of the winter blues, make sure to reach out for professional support. Talk to your doctor or another mental health provider and discuss creating a plan that makes sense for your lifestyle. Mental health support services can be tailored to meet your needs. These therapies are designed to help identify thought patterns that might be causing distress, so that they can be changed to positive ones. Other supportive services such as therapy or counseling can also provide a much needed opportunity to work through everyday challenges in a safe and understanding environment.
