Blue Monday: Understanding the Myth of the "Most Depressing Day" at Work
Introduction
Today, 20th January is "Blue Monday"—purportedly the most depressing day of the year. Blue Monday happens on the third Monday in January. This concept suggests that a combination of post-holiday blues, cold weather, and unmet New Year's resolutions culminate in a collective low mood, especially in the workplace. But how valid is this notion? Let's delve into the origins and credibility of Blue Monday and explore how we can genuinely support mental well-being at work during the winter months.
The Origins of Blue Monday
The term "Blue Monday" was coined in 2005 through a press release by the UK travel company Sky Travel. They introduced a formula, attributed to psychologist Dr. Cliff Arnall, which claimed to calculate the most depressing day of the year. This formula considered factors such as weather conditions, debt levels, time since Christmas, and low motivational levels. However, it's essential to note that this concept originated as part of a marketing campaign aimed at promoting holiday bookings during a typically slow sales period and it now thought to be a myth.
The Scientific Validity
Despite its widespread recognition, the scientific community has largely debunked the concept of Blue Monday. Critics argue that the formula lacks empirical support and that the variables used are subjective and not quantifiable. Dean Burnett, a neuroscientist, described the equation as "farcical" with "nonsensical measurements." Moreover, the idea that a single day could universally affect everyone's mood is overly simplistic and doesn't account for individual experiences and mental health conditions.
Impact on Workplace Morale
While the specific notion of Blue Monday may be a myth, it's undeniable that the winter months can be challenging for many employees. Reduced daylight, cold weather, and the post-holiday adjustment can contribute to feelings of low energy and decreased motivation. Recognising this, employers and colleagues can take proactive steps to support mental well-being in the workplace.
Strategies to Support Mental Well-being at Work
At an Organisational Level:
Promote Open Conversations: Encourage a culture where employees feel comfortable discussing mental health without stigma. Open dialogue can lead to early identification of issues and timely support.
Organize Wellness Activities: Introduce initiatives such as mindfulness sessions, physical exercise programs, or workshops on stress management to boost morale and provide coping tools.
Ensure Adequate Breaks: Allow employees to take short breaks during the day to recharge, especially during daylight hours, to combat the effects of reduced sunlight.
Provide Resources: Offer access to counseling services or employee assistance programs that can provide professional support when needed.
Lead by Example: Management should model healthy work habits and show empathy towards employees' well-being, setting a tone that prioritizes mental health.
At an Individual Level:
Stay Active: Engage in regular physical activity to boost endorphins and reduce stress. Even a short walk during lunch breaks can improve mood and focus.
Prioritize Sleep: Aim for consistent sleep patterns to ensure your body and mind have the rest they need to function optimally.
Set Realistic Goals: Break down tasks into manageable steps to avoid feeling overwhelmed, and celebrate small achievements.
Seek Sunlight: Spend time outdoors or near a window during daylight hours to increase exposure to natural light, which can help regulate your mood.
Practice Self-Compassion: Be kind to yourself and recognize that it's okay to have low-energy days. Focus on what you can control and seek support if needed.
Connect with Others: Reach out to friends, family, or colleagues for social support. Positive connections can uplift your mood and provide a sense of belonging.
Engage in Mindfulness or Relaxation Practices: Activities such as meditation, yoga, or deep breathing exercises can help reduce stress and enhance emotional resilience.
Consider a Career Change: If your current role feels unfulfilling or contributes significantly to your stress, explore the possibility of a career change. Reflect on your values, skills, and passions, and seek guidance from a career coach or mentor to identify opportunities that align better with your aspirations and well-being.
Conclusion
While Blue Monday itself may lack scientific backing, it serves as a reminder of the importance of mental health awareness in the workplace. Rather than focusing on a single day, employers and employees alike should recognize the ongoing need for mental health support, especially during the challenging winter months. By fostering a supportive and understanding work environment and adopting personal strategies for self-care, we can help ensure that everyone feels valued and motivated year-round.
About Me
I am Diana Dawson, Founder of Working Career. As a Professional Career Coach, Career Psychologist, Career Counsellor, Career Consultant, Executive Coach, and Wellbeing at Work Coach, I help organisations and individuals manage their careers.
I am an Accredited Master Coach with the Association for Coaching, a Coaching Psychologist and a Cognitive Behavioural Hypnotherapist with nearly 20 years of experience in the field.
I work with professionals from different sectors and backgrounds to cope and flourish at work.
I can provide one-to-one career coaching on zoom.