The Controversy Surrounding Blue Monday: Is It Real or Just a Marketing Gimmick?

If you’ve ever felt a sense of sadness or lethargy at the start of the new year, you’re not alone. The post-holiday comedown is a real phenomenon experienced by many. However, the question remains: Is “Blue Monday” truly the saddest day of the year? Coined by the travel company Sky Travel in 2005, Blue Monday refers to the third Monday of each January. Sky Travel used an arbitrary equation, considering factors such as weather, debt, and the time since the holidays and New Year, to determine the level of “happiness” on this specific day (January 15 in 2024).

Unsurprisingly, there was backlash. Experts argue that the whole concept of Blue Monday is essentially a marketing gimmick. Psychiatrist Dr. McCutcheon explains that “Blue Monday was a marketing gimmick created by a travel company who asked a psychologist to develop a ‘depression formula’ to find the most depressing day of the year.” She further asserts that it is not feasible to create a formula for depression that can be generalized to everyone.

While Blue Monday may not be scientifically valid, it is undeniable that people may experience more depression during the winter months. The post-holiday blues are difficult to ignore, along with the overwhelming credit card statements from holiday shopping and failed New Year’s resolutions. Major lifestyle changes are often unsuccessful and contribute to the phenomenon attributed to Blue Monday.

If you find yourself feeling down during this time of year, it’s essential not to dwell on it. Trying to overhaul your entire life through New Year’s resolutions rarely works. Instead, focus on incorporating smaller, sustainable goals into your routine gradually. Over time, these goals will add up, and you will begin to feel better.

Dr. McCutcheon emphasizes the significance of self-care and well-being, particularly during the winter months, whether or not Blue Monday holds any truth for you. She recommends maintaining good sleep hygiene with a set bedtime and wakeup time, getting natural sunlight, eating healthy foods, avoiding excessive alcohol consumption, and exercising regularly. Additionally, maintaining positive social relationships is crucial to combatting social isolation that often occurs during the winter months. Reach out to friends and organize activities such as group walks or communal dinners.

It is important to note that occasional sadness is normal. Everyone has “off” days when they want to be alone or lie in bed listening to music. However, persistent and severe symptoms of depression should not be ignored. If making lifestyle changes does not improve your mood or if you find yourself genuinely struggling, seek help from your primary-care doctor or a mental health professional. There are various medication and therapy options available that can offer assistance.

Remember, January is temporary, and February is the shortest month. Before you know it, spring will arrive, and you may even find yourself ironically wishing for winter again.