Blue Monday 2023

Blue Monday occurs yearly on the third Monday of January. Prepare for Blue Monday 2023 with our tips!

What is Blue Monday?

Blue Monday is reportedly the “most depressing day of the year”, according to findings from psychologist Dr. Cliff Arnall. Arnall’s study took a variety of factors into account including weather, financial circumstances and motivation levels, and this revealed that people seem to feel most ‘down’ on the Monday of the third week of January.

This is likely because the excitement of Christmas and New Year celebrations are over, and our wallets are probably feeling a bit lighter after the festive spending. It is also the point when people start to falter with their New Year’s resolutions and become demotivated. Of course, the cold weather and short days don’t help either, particularly during the current climate with the cost of living crisis resulting in many of us struggling more than usual.

It’s not all doom and gloom though! Here are some small ways that you can look after your mental health not just on Blue Monday, but every day!

Top tips to avoid the Monday blues

Do something physically active

Being active releases chemicals in the brain which can improve our mood and decrease feelings of stress and anxiety. It doesn’t have to be a big run, try having regular movement breaks away from your desk, going for a walk at lunch, or doing some yoga.

Check in with others

It is a good time to check in with those around you. If there is someone you haven’t called in a while, pick up the phone and let them know you are thinking of them, and find ways to show kindness to others. It will make them feel valued and you feel good.

Plan a trip

Give yourself something to look forward to by planning a trip. It could be a day trip or weekend break in the UK or a holiday abroad. If you need a new set of wheels for your trip, you can find a huge range of used cars at Hilton Garage!