January 20, 2025, marks the arrival of Blue Monday, a day often referred to as the most depressing day of the year. Originating from a 2005 PR stunt by Sky Travel, Blue Monday has evolved into a symbolic reminder to focus on mental health and self-care during the post-holiday blues.

The Origins of Blue Monday

Blue Monday was first introduced by Dr. Cliff Arnall, a British psychologist, who developed a formula to identify the most depressing day of the year. The formula considered factors such as poor weather conditions, debt accumulated during Christmas, the time since Christmas, and the distance remaining until payday(1)(3)(5).

The Science Behind Blue Monday

While the concept of Blue Monday has been met with skepticism, with many academics labeling it as pseudoscience, it has become a popular topic of discussion. Dr. Dean Burnett, a tutor at Cardiff University’s division of psychological medicine and clinical neurosciences, argues that the equation is flawed and lacks scientific backing(5).

Reframing Blue Monday

Despite its origins, Blue Monday can be seen as an opportunity to reflect on mental health and well-being. By focusing on positive thinking and self-care, individuals can turn the day into a fresh start. Here are some tips to combat Blue Monday:

  • Take Stock of Resolutions: Re-evaluate your New Year’s resolutions and create new, achievable goals(2).
  • Get Physical Exercise: Engage in physical activity to boost mood and energy levels(2)(3).
  • Practice Self-Care: Take time for yourself, whether it’s reading, journaling, or spending time with loved ones(2)(3).
  • Watch an Inspiring Movie or Show: Lift your mood with an uplifting film or TV show(2).

The Importance of Mental Health

Blue Monday serves as a reminder to check in on mental health and seek professional help if needed. With 1 in 6 people experiencing depression in their lifetime, it’s essential to prioritize mental well-being(3).

Conclusion

Blue Monday 2025 is an opportunity to focus on mental health and self-care. By reframing the day as a positive reminder, individuals can take steps towards a healthier and happier year. Share your thoughts on Blue Monday and how you plan to turn it into a positive day on social media using the hashtag #BlueMonday.

Sources:

(1) Haptivate. (n.d.). Blue Monday Survival Guide ft. 10 Science-backed Tips. Retrieved from https://haptivate.co.uk/blog/top-tips-for-getting-through-blue-monday/

(2) Days Of The Year. (n.d.). Blue Monday (January 20th, 2025). Retrieved from https://www.daysoftheyear.com/days/blue-monday/

(3) National Today. (n.d.). BLUE MONDAY – January 20, 2025. Retrieved from https://nationaltoday.com/blue-monday/

(4) Awareness Days UK. (n.d.). Blue Monday. Retrieved from https://awareness-days.co.uk/awareness-day/blue-monday/2025-01-20/

(5) There is a Day for That. (n.d.). Blue Monday around the world in 2025. Retrieved from https://www.thereisadayforthat.com/holidays/blue-monday