The third Monday of January has been declared the most melancholy day of the year. Dubbed “Blue Monday,” this day is supposed to be the most depressing day of the year.

Saddest Day of the Year?

While the idea of a specific day being the saddest of the year may seem a little hard to swallow, there is actually some science behind it.

A theory developed by Cliff Arnall, a researcher at Cardiff University, suggests that the third Monday in January is the day people are most likely to feel sad and depressed. Arnall created a mathematical formula combining various factors that contribute to feelings of sadness, including debt, weather, time since Christmas, and motivation levels.

Post-Christmas Blues

The holidays are over, and it’s back to reality. Many people return to work and school, and the excitement of the festive season has died down. This can lead to feelings of boredom and sadness.

Cold and Dark

As the winter solstice approaches, the days get shorter, and the nights get longer. The lack of sunlight can lead to a condition called Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD), which causes feelings of sadness and depression.

In addition, the cold weather can make it difficult to get outside and be active, leading to more sedentary behaviour and lower energy levels.

Failed Resolutions

Many people make New Year’s resolutions, but most fail to keep them. This can lead to feelings of disappointment and failure, which can contribute to depression.

Financial Woes

The holiday season can be expensive, and many people overspend, leading to debt and financial stress. This stress can carry over into January, leading to feelings of depression and anxiety.

Social media can play a significant role in depression and anxiety. Comparing our lives to the curated, picture-perfect lives of others can lead to feelings of inadequacy and low self-esteem.

This is especially true during the holidays, when social media is flooded with images of happy families and extravagant gifts.

Dealing with Blue Monday

While Blue Monday may seem like a grim day, there are things you can do to combat it. Here are a few tips:.

Get outside and be active
Eat a balanced diet
Practice mindfulness and meditation
Reach out to friends and family
Set goals and make plans for the future
Avoid comparing yourself to others on social media

The Bottom Line

While Blue Monday may be the most melancholy day of the year, it’s important to remember that depression and anxiety can affect people any day of the year.

If you or someone you know is struggling with depression, please seek help from a mental health professional.