Blue Monday

Blue Monday 2024: Dispelling the Misconceptions

January 15, 2024

Blue Monday, often hyped as the most gloomy day of the year, falls on the third Monday of January. This year, it graced us on January 15. But does this claim hold any truth, or is it simply a fabricated notion? Let’s explore the origins and ramifications of Blue Monday.

Also read: Sitting Kills: How Lack of Exercise Is Quietly Sabotaging Your Health

The Genesis of Blue Monday

The term “Blue Monday” was coined by the now-defunct UK company Sky Travel in collaboration with Welsh psychologist Cliff Arnall. They asserted the use of a formula considering seven factors: time since Christmas, monthly salary, weather, debt, time since a failed New Year’s resolution attempt, low motivational levels, and the need to take action.

However, experts have cast doubt on the legitimacy of this day, arguing that there is no concrete data to support this assertion. In fact, some believe it might even be detrimental to associate negative emotions with a specific day.

The Reality of Blue Monday

In contrast to the Blue Monday concept, Belle Liang, a professor of counseling psychology at Boston College, emphasizes that mental health challenges are consistent and don’t necessarily peak on the third Monday of January. Tyler Keith, a licensed clinical social worker and telehealth therapist at Thriveworks in North Carolina, US, also points out that there is no data proving people are at their lowest on this particular day.

While January can indeed pose challenges for many, with post-holiday stress and winter’s generally dampening effect on mood, it’s crucial to recognize that mental health issues are intricate and cannot be tied to a specific date.

The Commercialization of Blue Monday

Blue Monday has become a marketing tool for companies aiming to boost profits. Various products, from mushroom tea to special bedroom accessories, are marketed as remedies to beat Blue Monday. This commercialization of mental health raises concerns, suggesting that mental health struggles can be alleviated by a week on the beach or simply by the day changing to Tuesday.

Conclusion

While Blue Monday may be a catchy term, it’s vital to acknowledge that mental health is a significant issue that cannot be confined to a single day. Seeking help is crucial if you’re feeling down, irrespective of the date. Remember, it’s okay not to be okay, and support is available every day of the year. Let’s continue fostering awareness about mental health and providing support, not just on Blue Monday but on every day that follows.

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