Do you really know? What is Blue Monday?
Jan 19, 2026
Blue Monday, deemed the most depressing day of the year, originated from a 2005 equation by psychologist Cliff Arnall. Critics argue it's pseudoscience, suggesting it serves as a marketing strategy rather than a psychological fact. The podcast explores why January—losing New Year motivation and post-holiday debt—contributes to this myth. It also highlights how variations exist in different hemispheres, plus retail therapy's surprising effects. Ultimately, it questions whether Blue Monday is real or just another clever marketing ploy.
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What Blue Monday Claims
- Blue Monday is a phrase for a supposed 'most depressing day' in January that started in 2005.
- The idea links winter weather and post-holiday timing to higher low moods across many people.
Why January Is Targeted
- Common factors in Blue Monday formulas include winter weather, post-Christmas debt, and failed resolutions.
- The effect is region-specific and less known in places like the southern hemisphere and the US due to seasonal and holiday differences.
Origin As A Marketing Campaign
- The Blue Monday concept began as part of a Sky travel marketing campaign to get people to book holidays.
- Cliff Arnall later admitted the equation was unscientific after critics called it pseudoscience.