Blue Monday

 

Monday, 19 January, is supposedly the saddest day of the year, known as Blue Monday, But, how much truth is there behind this claim?

While there is no scientific evidence that this particular day is sadder or gloomier than others, the winter season can be challenging for many people.

The term Blue Monday was first coined in 2005 by psychologist Cliff Arnall for the United Kingdom’s travel company Sky Travel as a way to promote winter holidays.

Arnall came up with this date – normally the third Monday of the year – by combining weather data, amounts of debt, time passed since Christmas, motivation levels, and the time since New Year’s resolutions were made.