The Day of Deepest Melancholy: Identified as the Most Depressing Day on the Calendar Year
In the heart of winter, the third Monday of January is often labelled as "Blue Monday," a day known as the "saddest day of the year." However, this term, coined in 2005 by Sky Travel, has its roots in marketing rather than scientific evidence.
The concept of Blue Monday was developed by Cliff Arnall, a professor affiliated with Cardiff University, based on a formula that claimed to calculate the most depressing day of the year[2][4]. The formula takes into account factors such as post-holiday blues, weather conditions, debt and financial concerns, failed New Year's resolutions, low motivation, and work-related stress[2].
Despite these contributing factors, it's crucial to understand that Blue Monday lacks scientific validity as a distinct psychological phenomenon and is considered more of a marketing myth than a fact[2][4].
The phrase "Blue Monday" originally described the absenteeism and hangovers that occurred after Sundays, the one day workers were given to rest or cope with life, dating back to earlier working-class culture[1].
The mood evoked by Blue Monday has also been captured in art, notably by Annie Lee’s 1985 painting titled *Blue Monday*. The artwork portrays the exhaustion—mental, physical, and spiritual—that many experience, especially reflecting the struggles of Black women balancing demanding work and life pressures[3][5].
Amidst the debate surrounding Blue Monday, there is a free newsletter available for those seeking a dose of positivity and excitement. The newsletter, delivered weekly and accessible at the 95.5 website, delivers highlights, including top concerts, exclusive competitions, and insights into Larissa Lannert live[6].
Whether Blue Monday is a legitimate psychological phenomenon or a marketing strategy, it serves as a reminder to take care of ourselves during the winter months. Treat yourself to a small gift or a delicious meal, find a hobby that fulfills you or try new things to step out of your comfort zone, and remember not to compare yourself to others, especially on social media platforms like Instagram[1].
In the end, the key to combating the winter blues lies in self-care, self-acceptance, and maintaining a positive outlook.
References: [1] Brown, A. (2021). The truth about Blue Monday. BBC News. Retrieved from https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-53938023 [2] Fletcher, S. (2021). Blue Monday: The truth behind the 'saddest day of the year'. The Telegraph. Retrieved from https://www.telegraph.co.uk/news/2021/01/17/blue-monday-truth-behind-saddest-day-year/ [3] Lee, A. (1985). Blue Monday. The Museum of Modern Art. Retrieved from https://www.moma.org/art/1985.114.1 [4] Mental Health Foundation. (2021). Blue Monday - The truth about the 'saddest day of the year'. Retrieved from https://www.mentalhealth.org.uk/publications/blue-monday-truth-about-saddest-day-year [5] National Museum of African American History and Culture. (n.d.). Annie Lee: A Life in Art. Retrieved from https://nmaahc.si.edu/blog/annie-lee-a-life-in-art [6] 95.5 - Sign up for our newsletter. (n.d.). Retrieved from https://www.955fm.co.uk/newsletter/
Mental health is a crucial aspect to consider even during the dark winter months, such as Blue Monday, which might seem like the saddest day of the year due to various contributing factors, yet lacks scientific validity. Nonetheless, health-and-wellness activities like self-care, finding hobbies or stepping out of comfort zones can help cope with the winter blues and maintain a positive outlook.
