For some, January 15th, 2024 will be just another winter day. For others, it marks the most depressing day of the year.

What is Blue Monday?

The origins of Blue Monday date back to 2004, when psychologist Cliff Arnall created a mathematical equation to determine the day of the year when people are most prone to symptoms of depression. As a result, Arnall weighted the negative impact of several factors to determine when people would be at their lowest, including weather, debt, monthly salary, time since Christmas, time since failing a New Year’s resolution, low motivational levels, and the perceived need to take action.[1]

Another, more clinical, term to describe Blue Monday is Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD), which the Canadian Mental Health Association (CMHA) reports accounts for 10% of all depression cases and that 17-18% of Canadians will experience some degree of SAD in their lifetime.”[2]

Are your employees powerless over Blue Monday?

Though there is merit to the fact that less sunshine, a perceived sense of helplessness, lack of motivation, and financial stress all contribute to symptoms of depression, we do in fact have the power to prepare for the dreaded third Monday of January. To help your employees start 2024 on the right foot, try sharing these tips to reduce the likelihood of seasonal depression:

  1. Speak to a professional: Homewood Pathfinder connects employees with qualified counsellors via online, phone, or in-person sessions to ensure they receive support whenever they need it – especially during periods of seasonal depression.
  2. Set a budget for the holidays: We get it – it’s easy to get caught up in the excitement of the holidays when buying gifts for a loved one, preparing a rich meal, or travelling for some much-deserved rest and relaxation. Instead, start 2024 off right by living within your means, avoiding credit, and creating a realistic budget.
  3. Stay connected: If we’ve learned anything over the past few years, it’s that socialization is key to maintaining our positive mental health. Regularly check in with people who care about you over text, a call, or video chat to feel the warmth of the connection we crave over the holidays.
  4. Get outside: Though January doesn’t give us as much sun as we’d like in Canada, try to get outside as much as you can to soak up as much sunshine as possible. Go for a walk or take up a winter sport so that you can stay active all year round.

Most importantly, realize that Blue Monday is not inevitable. Encourage your employees to be proactive so that this Blue Monday is a bit brighter and the new year begins with good health and positivity.

Learn more about how Homewood Pathfinder can help improve your mental health this winter.

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[1] https://www.independent.co.uk/life-style/blue-monday-today-what-is-b1994428.html

[2] https://bc.cmha.ca/documents/seasonal-affective-disorder-2/#:~:text=Top-,Who%20does%20it%20affect%3F,10%25%20of%20all%20depression%20cases.