MENTAL HEALTH
Blue Monday

It’s January, and inevitably, Blue Monday has arrived. What is Blue Monday? In 2005, Sky Travel, A British Travel Agency, deemed it the most depressing/saddest day of the year. The excitement of the holiday season has faded, New Year’s celebrations are behind us, and many are returning to the daily grind of work or school. With routines settling back into place, it’s easy to see why some might feel a bit blue.
The weeks and months before the new year are often filled with events and social gatherings. But when January rolls in, the social calendar slows down, and the shorter, darker days after the holidays can amplify symptoms of Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD). In this article, we’ll explore practical strategies to combat the Blue Monday blues!
Be kind to yourself:
The new year can be met with looming pressure to make resolutions and substantial life changes. However, it’s important to remember to be kind to yourself during this process. Your list of resolutions doesn’t need to be accomplished in the first week or month of the new year. Treat yourself with patience and understanding—Progress takes time, and self-compassion is key to making meaningful, lasting changes.
Limit Screen time:
We’ve all been there—lost in a doom-scrolling spiral, mindlessly navigating a TikTok rabbit hole, comparing our lives to others, and feeling those pangs of FOMO without realizing how much time has passed.
One way to boost your mood this Blue Monday is by stepping away from your devices. Taking breaks from your screen can be a simple yet effective way to improve your mental well-being and can also help you build a habit of incorporating more screen-free moments into your routine.

Make time for self-care
Taking care of yourself is one of the most important things you can do for your overall well-being. Yet, we often push our own needs to the back burner. Remember, it’s okay to prioritize yourself and take time for activities that bring you joy, help you relax, and leave you feeling fulfilled. You deserve it!
Make the most of natural light
Sunlight is the perfect remedy for chasing away the winter blues! One of the toughest challenges of the season is enduring months of limited daylight. That’s why making the most of natural sunlight is so important. It boosts vitamin D production, improves sleep quality, enhances focus and productivity, and uplifts your mood by increasing serotonin levels. Make every sunny moment count!
Seek out connection
The last thing anyone wants to feel is alone on Blue Monday. Take a moment to connect with a friend, whether meeting up in person or chatting on FaceTime. Strengthening those connections can lift your spirits and help you feel supported.
Exercise both your body and mind
Physical activity is a natural mood booster; whether it’s trying that exciting new gym class, you’ve been eyeing, stepping out for a refreshing walk, or simply finding a way to get your body in motion. Movement fuels your body with endorphins, which can help combat the sluggish and dreary feelings commonly associated with Blue Monday.
While Blue Monday may be labelled the “saddest day of the year,” it’s important to remember that it doesn’t have to define your mindset or mood. By embracing self-compassion, limiting screen time, prioritizing self-care, soaking up natural light, seeking meaningful connections, and staying active, you can turn the day into an opportunity for growth and positivity. Remember, every step you take to support your well-being matters—not just on Blue Monday but throughout the entire year.