Every year, the third Monday in January is referred to as “Blue Monday,” a day often thought to be the most challenging of the year. In 2025, Blue Monday falls on January 20th. It's a time when many of us feel the weight of post-holiday fatigue, dreary winter weather, and the reality that New Year’s resolutions may already be slipping. Instead of giving in to these feelings, let’s take a moment to embrace optimism, focus on self-care, and prioritise our mental wellbeing.
Understanding Blue Monday
The concept of Blue Monday originated from a formula created by a British psychologist, which combines factors such as weather, debt levels, the time since Christmas, and our motivation levels. While the scientific accuracy of this formula is often debated, it does highlight the common struggles many people face in January. Rather than dwelling on the negative, we can use Blue Monday as an opportunity to reflect on our mental health and focus on making positive changes.
Taking care of yourself: Simple steps to beat the blues
Instead of letting Blue Monday get the better of us, we can turn it into a day of rejuvenation and self-care. Here are a few simple ways to boost your mood and focus on your wellbeing:
- Connect with others: Reach out to someone you trust, whether it’s a friend, family member, or colleague. A simple chat can help remind you that you’re not alone, and you’ve got a network of people around you who care. It’s also a great opportunity to check-in with others, who may also be feeling the brunt of Blue Monday.
- Get outdoors: If possible, take a short walk outside to enjoy some fresh air and natural light. Even in the colder months, a bit of time outdoors can improve your mood and boost your energy levels.
- Practice gratitude: Shift your mindset by focusing on the positives in your life. Consider keeping a gratitude journal, where you jot down a few things you’re grateful for each day. This small act can help cultivate a sense of appreciation and optimism.
Mental health awareness: Looking after ourselves every day
While Blue Monday may be a moment to reflect on our mental health, it’s important to remember that wellbeing should be a priority all year round. Everyone faces challenges, and reaching out for support when needed is a sign of strength, not weakness. If you're feeling overwhelmed, reach out to a friend or family member, your Tutor or consider speaking to a mental health professional or seeking help from a support organisation.
For anyone who needs help right now, don’t hesitate to reach out to a confidential mental health service. Shout offers support via text. Simply text ‘Pgon’ to 85258, and you’ll be connected with a compassionate advisor ready to listen and guide you through any tough emotions or concerns you might have.
Turning Blue Monday into an opportunity for growth
Rather than seeing Blue Monday as a day to simply endure, consider it a chance to focus on growth. You can reframe the day as an opportunity to set realistic goals for your mental and physical health, as well as your personal and professional development. Whether it’s improving your habits or nurturing a positive mindset, small steps today can create lasting change.
Encouraging positivity: Building a supportive community
Blue Monday is also a great time to connect with your community and spread positivity. Encourage those around you - whether colleagues, friends, or family members - to share their experiences and strategies for dealing with the January blues. Starting conversations about mental health can foster a sense of solidarity and remind everyone that we’re all part of a supportive network.
As Blue Monday approaches, let’s face it with optimism. Acknowledge the challenges, but use them as a platform for personal growth. By focusing on self-care, connecting with others, and prioritising our mental wellbeing, we can transform Blue Monday into a day of reflection, empowerment, and lasting positivity. Together, we can ensure that the energy we create today carries us forward through the rest of the year!
