Today is Blue Monday: Why the Most Depressing Day of the Year Is Nothing More Than a Marketing Stunt ?

Blue Monday: Nothing More Than a Marketing “Stick”

The third Monday in January is often considered the most depressing day of the year. As a result, everyone has their own advice on how to stay in shape this "blue Monday". Don't worry. There's nothing scientific about it. It's just a cleverly designed publicity stunt by a travel agency in 2005.

Every third Monday in January, the media invariably bring out the concept of “Blue Monday”, supposedly representing the most depressing day of the year. This theory, which associates winter weather, the end of the holidays and the abandonment of good resolutions, was however entirely fabricated in 2005 by a travel agency with the sole aim of stimulating holiday bookings.

“This pseudo-theory is not only false but potentially damaging“, underlines the association Trauma Research UK. It risks minimizing the reality of psychological disorders that can occur at any time of the year. Mental health experts unanimously denounce this marketing simplification that could discourage some people from seeking help, by suggesting that their discomfort is only temporary or linked to a specific date.

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Not to be confused with seasonal depression

Depression and anxiety do not follow a predetermined calendar. And this notion of “the most depressing day of the year” should not be confused with another: seasonal depression, which is a reality.

Winter depression would indeed be closely linked to the decrease in sunshine. The latter would cause a decrease in serotonin activity, which contributes to mood regulation. With the key: a loss of motivation, a lack of energy… This situation can even go as far as depression combining classic symptoms (such as greater irritability) and other more atypical ones such as very marked fatigue, hypersomnia, bulimia, an increased appetite for fatty and sugary products, weight gain…

How to fight ?

Since the lack of light is the cause of your depression, get some fresh air as much as possible. Even if it's cold, continue to do physical activity. To comfort yourself, don't throw yourself headlong into a diet that's too fatty. Continue to eat healthily. And share many moments with family or friends.