Debunking the Blue Monday myth 


The third Monday of the year is touted by many as the peak of January blues. But, is there any science behind Blue Monday?

Supposedly, people across the world can feel their lowest, unmotivated and bored today (17th January). First founded in the early 2000s by travel company Sky Travel, Blue Monday was thought up when the company reached out to psychology tutor ​​Cliff Arnall. The team asked the expert to come up with a formula for the best day to book a holiday. 

Thanks to the long nights, cold days and snaps back to reality in January, Arnall fell on the third Monday in January and word spread. Quickly, it was picked up by marketing departments, PR companies as a chance to sell feel-good products and continues to leave scientists with steam coming from their ears. 

You might have guessed it from the fact a travel company is behind the fad, Blue Monday isn’t backed by any scientific evidence (remember, the psychologist would have had his invoice in mind). And, you cannot blame your mood and mental health today on the phenomenon. That’s why we are urging you to check in with your mental health every day, not just 16 days into the New Year.

In fact, with the World Health Organisation citing the bereavement, isolation, loss of income and increased demand for mental health services as direct consequences of the Covid-19 pandemic, it’s never been more important to keep your wellbeing in check. 

What’s more, lots of people are living with Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD), a disorder that sees their mental health affected by the change in seasons - not just January. Also, there are bodily changes in winter - like hormone fluctuations and changing sleeping habits - that can affect your mood and mental health too. 

It’s important to differentiate between whether you are having an off day, or when you are living with a mental health condition that is affecting your everyday life. Whether it’s a persistent low mood, irritability, lack of energy or feeling prolonged despair if you are struggling to cope you should seek help from your GP. 

Changes in your lifestyle can also work well for lifting your mood and soothing symptoms, here is a round-up of what you can do to help:

Get enough natural sunlight: Making sure there is enough light in our homes and workplaces, as well as going for walks, is a simple way to manage poor moods. Studies have shown that natural light is great for boosting well-being and it increased sunlight exposure heightens the body’s production of serotonin - the happy hormone.

Exercise more: We’ve all heard about the benefits of movement for our mental health but we want to remind you that getting some exercise really does work wonders. This isn’t about running a marathon or signing up to spin, instead find an activity you enjoy. It will help you sleep better, relieve stress and release balancing hormones. 

Become more mindful: Mindfulness is the practice of becoming self-aware with your body, mind and soul. You can do this by testing out if affirmations work for you or by signing up for a yoga and meditation class. Studies have shown that yoga increases the signalling in your brain and can help you process your emotions more easily.

Eat a balanced diet: Getting your fill of fruit, veg, lean protein, carbs and dairy is key to keeping things on an even keel. Also, there are loads of studies to show that changing your diet and eating certain foods can aid better mood. Think about choosing foods that are full of anti-oxidants and also opting for gut-friendly foods. 

If you need extra support for your wellbeing, our mental health hub is always open. Our mywellbeing support programme is also jam-packed full of weekly advice too. 

Information contained in this Articles page has been written by talkhealth based on available medical evidence. The content however should never be considered a substitute for medical advice. You should always seek medical advice before changing your treatment routine. talkhealth does not endorse any specific products, brands or treatments.

Information written by the talkhealth team

Last revised: 17 January 2022
Next review: 17 January 2025