What is Blue Monday and why is it the “most depressing day of the year”? All your questions will be answered on the upcoming Day of Sadness next week… and why it doesn’t have to be as bleak as you might fear
- January 18 is considered the most depressing day of the year
- The term Blue Monday was coined by psychologist Dr. Cliff Arnall coined
- He has devised a formula to show why January 18 is particularly bad for many
- Factors in factors like weather, debt and time since Christmas
With the Christmas and New Year celebrations behind us, the cold, dark days of January can really upset us.
Experts are calling tomorrow, January 18, the “most depressing day of the year”.
But where does the term come from and what can you do against the blues?
Web has all your questions covered.
Today is the most depressing of the year as people’s moods are affected by their Christmas finances, inclement weather and the long wait for summer (file photo).
What is Blue Monday and why is it the most depressing day of the year?
The term Blue Monday was coined by psychologist Dr. Cliff Arnall, who devised a formula to show why the third Monday in January is particularly bad.
It takes into account factors such as the average time New Year’s resolutions fail, inclement weather, debt levels, time since Christmas, and motivation level.
What can I do to feel better?
dr Arnall, a former tutor at Cardiff University, said in 2019 that people should take the opportunity to turn the tide.
“Whether it’s starting a new career, meeting new friends, taking up a new hobby, or booking a new adventure, January is a great time to make those big decisions,” he added.
To combat January blues, health experts recommend a mix of exercise, fruits and vegetables, and vitamin D to boost spirits and rid staff of the January blues.
Giving up or reducing alcohol is also recommended to increase energy levels and improve sleep.
What help is there?
The Samaritan relief organization is not only there for people who are toying with the idea of taking their own lives.
It’s also there for those who are having a hard time, according to Laura Adlington, Great British Bake Off finalist and Samaritan volunteer.
She said in 2020, “If you think someone’s struggling, ask them if they’re okay. You won’t make her feel worse.
“You don’t have to have all the answers. A phone call is such a small thing, but it can mean the world to someone.’
The term Blue Monday was coined by psychologist Dr. Cliff Arnall, who devised a formula to show why the third Monday in January is particularly bad
Samaritans chief executive Julie Bentley said: “The challenges many people face during the winter are being felt even more intensely this year with the pandemic restrictions.
“At Samaritans, we know how powerful talking and listening can be, even when it’s virtual.
“It doesn’t have to be a Monday or a cup of tea, it’s about taking the time to listen and support each other. It could save a life.”
What’s the science behind the January blues?
One in 15 Brits gets depressed in winter and suffers from seasonal affective disorder.
The problem is thought to be related to how the body responds to light.
The main theory is that a lack of sunlight can prevent a part of the brain called the hypothalamus from working properly.
This could affect the production of the hormone melatonin, which makes you sleepy. People with SAD produce it in higher levels than normal.
The production of serotonin could also be affected, further affecting mood, appetite and sleep.
Low serotonin levels are also linked to feelings of depression.