It’s known for being the ‘bluest’ day of the year. But here’s how you can beat it.
What is Blue Monday?
Blue Monday is the pseudoscientific concept which claims that the third Monday in January is the most depressing day of the year. For 2026, this falls on Monday, January 19. It’s believed that the origins of the day is rooted in marketing, with the concept first coming on the scene in 2004 when a travel agency used the day as a marketing campaign to sell holidays.
The concept has stuck around however, and while the day itself may feel no different to any other Monday in the month, or year, it can serve as a reminder to slow down and engage in self care during particularly dark and cold times of the year. Whether or not the concept of Blue Monday itself is a myth, there’s no denying that the winter blues are real. In the January|February issue of Irish Country Magazine, Deputy Editor Niamh Devereux shines a light on Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) and how it affects many people’s lives during this time of the year, along with expert advice on how to combat it.
In the piece, Niamh chats with Irish women on how they alleviate their SAD symptoms. 37-year-old Victoria shares: “I start my day by loudly playing music when I get ready (lately it’s been Lily Allen on repeat) and it gives me a real boost of dopamine, even if its grey and gloomy outside.”
Aside from blaring some Lily Allen, here are a couple of other things you can do on this Blue Monday, or any Monday, to flood your brain with happy hormones.
Run a bath
Often we’re so busy with completing everything on our to-do list that we forget to take some time out to relax and care for ourselves. Instead of jumping into the shower for a quick scrub when you can find the time, dedicate 30-45 minutes of your evening to soaking in the bath. Not only will it warm you from the inside out, it’s also a perfect excuse to put your mind on DND. While soaking you could position your laptop carefully to watch a TV show, read a book, or simply let your mind relax and wander as you float peacefully.
Watch a movie
Who says that movie night has to be reserved for the weekends? Cook yourself dinner, or better yet, order in, and decide on a movie to watch for the evening’s entertainment. It could be your go-to feel good watch or one that’s been on your to-watch list for months. Getting stuck in a cycle of spending your evenings passively watching a re-run TV show while scrolling on your phone can feel like an unsatisfying way to spend an evening, yet for so many of us it’s how most weeknights look. Instead put the phone on airplane mode and get stuck into a flick, either by yourself or with the family.
Do something you’ve been waiting for
We all have that candle we’re waiting for the perfect time to light, or the skirt we’re waiting for the perfect occasion to wear. Maybe Blue Monday is the perfect time to just – do the thing. Life can pass you by when you’re waiting for the optimum time which ultimately never arrives. Instead, indulge yourself in the things that bring you joy, because everyday should be a good enough occasion.
Create a hygge environment
Do as the Scandinavians do and engage in some hygge. The word dates back to the 1800s used to denote the concept of enjoying a slower-paced life. This means, creating an environment that brings you comfort and joy, since the outside isn’t doing that right now. Think candles, warm lights, lighting the fire, and soft blankets. By surrounding your living space with all of these things your brain will instantly feel relaxed and safe. You can engage in slow activities like colouring or knitting. Make a habit of this as often as you can and eventually your circadian rhythm will become more regulated.
