The first month of a new year is always full of mixed feelings. The excitement of starting something new quickly fades, everyday obligations pull us back into reality, and dark and cold days only make it even harder to maintain a good mood. But there is one day that is known as the most depressing of the whole year. What makes it so special – and how can we combat it?
Each year third Monday in January gets a very special title: "the most depressing day of the year" or Blue MondayThis day is synonymous with the feeling of fatigue, low mood, and general demotivation that many people around the world face. Why this day in particular?
Why does “Blue Monday” touch us all so deeply?
Blue Monday is said to be determined by various factors that often come together during this period.
Winter blues:
Cold, dark days without sunlight have a big impact on our mood. The lack of natural light affects our biological rhythms, especially the production of melatonin and serotonin – hormones that regulate our sleep and mood. When these hormones are out of balance, we often feel tired, melancholic and lacking energy.
The holiday euphoria is over:
After the Christmas holidays and New Year's Eve parties, we return to our daily routines, often with long lists of unfinished tasks. The holiday lights go down, the euphoria fades, and we find ourselves back in the cold, ordinary everyday life.
Financial concerns:
For many, January also means facing the financial consequences of December's spending sprees. As we open our bank statements and think about future expenses, we feel an added burden.
Failed New Year's resolutions:
We often start the New Year with many ambitious goals, such as losing weight, exercising more, or reducing stress. But when we find that these resolutions are harder to keep than we expected, we can feel disappointed with ourselves.
Is Blue Monday Scientifically Based?
Although many believe in the existence of Blue Monday, scientists warn that the day has no solid scientific basis. The concept was introduced by a British travel agency in 2005 as part of a promotional campaign. Nevertheless, the third Monday in January has become a symbolic reminder that January is an emotionally difficult month for many.
How can you combat Blue Monday?
- Find the light: Spend time outdoors when possible or use light therapy.
- Move your body: Physical exercise, even just a short walk, has been proven to improve mood.
- Plan something enjoyable: Organize a meeting with friends, book a getaway, or simply plan an afternoon to relax.
- Focus on small victories: Instead of focusing on failed goals, celebrate small achievements.
Blue Monday may be a marketing invention, but its meaning is deeply rooted in our experiences of January. Instead of giving in to melancholy, use it as an opportunity to take small steps to improve your mood. And if you're feeling low, remember that after every rainy day, there's sunshine.
