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This content has been updated from the previous article on January 24, 2025.
We’re near Blue Monday: typically the third Monday of January and for some, coined the “saddest day of the year.” A mathematician, Dr. Cliff Arnall, came up with the idea, calculating that a mix of factors (like bad weather, distance from the holidays, failed New Year’s resolutions, and lack of sunlight) makes this day the toughest on our mood.
Staying emotionally steady on Blue Monday doesn’t require major life changes. Small, intentional actions, especially when layered together, can improve mood and outlook for many.
If low mood, fatigue, or feelings of hopelessness persist beyond a few days, or begin to interfere with work, relationships, or daily functioning, it may be a sign that something more than a temporary slump is going on. For some people, this time of year can trigger seasonal affective disorder (SAD), a form of depression that follows a seasonal pattern and is often linked to reduced daylight during the winter months. Others may experience what’s commonly called the “winter blues,” which, while less severe, can still significantly impact mood and energy.
Seasonal changes can also intensify underlying anxiety, depression, or burnout, making symptoms feel heavier or harder to manage in January. If these experiences feel familiar, reaching out for professional mental health support can be an important step. Seeking help is often a proactive and effective way to regain emotional balance and start feeling better sooner.
Wikipedia contributors. (n.d.). Blue Monday (date). In Wikipedia, The Free Encyclopedia. Retrieved January 10, 2026, from https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Blue_Monday_(date)
I'm a licensed psychotherapist based in Evanston, Illinois, with a focus on working with adolescents, couples, depression, anxiety, individuals navigating the complexities of bipolar mood disorder and schizophrenia. My lived experience allows me to provide an approach grounded in empathy,...
