What is Blue Monday and why is it ‘the most depressing day’ of the year?

IN January, one particular date in the calendar has been dubbed the ‘’most depressing day’’ of the year.

Known as Blue Monday, the day is one many make note of - but what is it and when is Blue Monday in 2024? Here’s everything you need to know.

What is Blue Monday?

The term ‘Blue Monday’ was first coined in 2005, as a marketing campaign for a travel company, encouraging people to escape the winter blues and book a holiday.

The date was calculated using factors including weather conditions, debt levels, the days since Christmas, the time date people tend to break their New Year’s resolutions, and motivation levels.

When is Blue Monday 2024?

Blue Monday usually falls on the third Monday of January every year. 

For 2024, Blue Monday will take place on Monday, January 15.

However, the alleged gloomy date doesn’t always have to be so blue.

The Samaritans have coined a new term for the day - Brew Monday.

A post shared to the charity’s official website reads: ‘’At Samaritans we know there’s no such thing as ‘Blue Monday’ – we all have our good days and our bad days, and those aren’t for the calendar to decide.

‘’So we say it's time to stop this myth about Monday being 'blue' and instead start a conversation over a brew! ​Reach out and connect with family, friends, colleagues and loved ones.

‘’Any day can be a Brew Monday. It doesn’t matter if it’s a Monday morning or Saturday night, or if you’re drinking green tea, black coffee or orange juice. 

‘’If you’re sharing a cuppa and listening, you’re doing it right.’’

Why is Blue Monday the 'most depressing day' of the year?

As mentioned above, deciding which day is the "most depressing day" of the year is believed to involve various factors including everything from the distance from Christmas to the level of debt.

Others have linked Blue Monday to Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) which is a type of depression that's related to changes in seasons.

SAD is sometimes known as "winter depression" because the symptoms are usually more apparent and more severe during the winter.

However, experts at Glasgow University have said Blue Monday is as miserable as any other day in January or February.

Dr Shari McDaid, lead at the Mental Health Foundation’s work on poverty and financial strains says: “Blue Monday’ is traditionally the third Monday of January each year and the common myth is that it’s the most depressing day of the year, based on false calculations of cold weather, post-Christmas debt, and returning to work.

“No scientific studies have ever backed up the theory.

“Mental health ‘good’ and ‘bad’ days are unique to each of us, and the Mental Health Foundation has expert advice and information year-round to help support good mental health.

“There are a range of free-to-download publications including ‘Our best mental health tips backed by research’, which details the things we all need do to protect our mental health.

“This includes getting enough sleep/rest, exercising, eating well, and being kind to yourself and others."

In 2024, mental health charity Mind is also dispelling the notion of Blue Monday.

A statement on its official website reads: ‘’This year we wanted to dispel the myth that the third Monday in January (15 January) is the most depressing day of the year and remind people that depression is a serious condition that can affect people on any day.’’

What can you do about Blue Monday?

There are several ways you can turn ‘Blue Monday’ into a positive day for both your mind and health. 

Here are just some of the things you can do to beat the blues and have a positive day.

• Remember you are in control - first and foremost, it is important to remember that you are in control.
• Have a cup of positivi-TEA - the Samaritans are encouraging everyone to reach out to a friend, family member, or colleague for a cuppa and a chat.
• Exercise - starting an activity you've wanted to do for ages and enjoying time with loved ones all help to banish the winter blues.
• Get some sun - take advantage of the sunshine, if you can. Go for a walk on your lunch break or try a new outdoor activity to boost your vitamin D levels.
• Read a self-care book - there are a number of books aimed at improving mental health, with tips to help reduce stress and anxiety, and generally feel calmer and happier.
• Listen to a podcast - alternatively, you can pick up your phone, laptop, or tablet and find a self-care podcast.
• Catch up with your loved ones - one of the easiest ways to boost your mood is to catch up with family and friends.
• Watch a fun film - why not try watching a feel-good film to make you smile? Pick one of your favourites, or a classic you have never seen, and sit back and relax.
• Reach out - sometimes the January blues go much deeper and you may be suffering in a way that can't be solved with a simple fix.

As well as the above, we have also shared several different ways to beat the blues right here - from smiling at a stranger to wearing bright colours, we reveal all you need to know.

If you are struggling with feelings of depression over a long period you should speak to your doctor, or a trusted family member or friend.

Remember, your mental health is as important as your physical health - you will not be wasting anyone's time.

There are a number of helplines staffed by trained people ready to listen.

They won't judge you and could help you make sense of what you're feeling. 

If you, or anyone you know, needs help dealing with mental health problems the Samaritans can be contacted on 116 123, or visit Mind’s website for more information and available helplines.

Listening line staff will let you talk through your feelings and experiences without judging you or telling you what to do. 

Many listening services let you talk for as long as you need.

As well as phone numbers to call, some organisations routinely offer support in other ways – which could include emails, messages, or web chat.