Today is supposedly the dreariest day on the calendar, marked by miserable weather, post-holiday blues, and shattered New Year resolutions. However, mental health experts challenge the widely accepted Blue Monday theory, asserting that it lacks scientific evidence and trivialises mental health problems.

Originally conceived in 2005 as a marketing ploy by Sky Travel, Blue Monday aimed to boost holiday sales to disheartened Brits. Psychologist Cliff Arnall was commissioned to formulate an ‘equation,’ considering factors like weather, debt, salary, time since Christmas, New Year’s resolutions, and motivational levels. Despite the initial date being January 24, it has since been conventionally observed on the third Monday of January.

Critics dismiss Arnall’s equation as fundamentally meaningless, emphasising the variability of factors like weather. Dr. Elena Touroni, a consultant psychologist, and co-founder of The Chelsea Psychology Clinic argue that the concept of Blue Monday perpetuates harmful misconceptions about mental health.

Depression, a genuine health condition affecting approximately one in ten people at some point in their lives, cannot be dismissed or casually overcome. Dr. Touroni stresses that mental health issues don’t adhere to a calendar, and designating a “most depressing day” oversimplifies the complexity of such difficulties.

Winter, often associated with worsened mental health, can legitimately impact well-being due to factors like seasonal affective disorder (SAD). Dr. Jon Van Niekerk, Chair of the Royal College of Psychiatrists’ General Adult Faculty, notes that low mood and anxiety can be exacerbated during autumn and winter. SAD, affecting around 2 million people in the UK, is linked to a lack of sunlight exposure, possibly impacting the hypothalamus, which regulates sleep and mood.

To alleviate winter blues and SAD symptoms like persistent low mood and irritability, Dr. Touroni suggests maximising daylight exposure, even with short walks during the day. Regular exercise is also beneficial, releasing mood-boosting endorphins and serotonin.

However, it’s crucial to recognize that depression can strike at any time of the year. Dr. Van Niekerk emphasises the distinction between feeling down and suffering from a mental illness like depression. Causes of depression vary, including stress, family history, and loneliness. Seeking professional help is essential for effective management through lifestyle changes, therapy, or medication.