Busting the Blue Monday myth

Print Solutions

Popular myth – and misconception – claims that the third Monday in January (in 2026, that is today) is the most depressing day of the year.

However, in truth ‘Blue Monday’ was originally conceived as a marketing ploy to sell holidays, because, of course, the reality is that challenging times don’t follow a calendar.

Whatever you think about Blue Monday, there are some steps you can take to support your wellbeing, in and out of work every day of the year.

These include:

• Taking time to practice self-care, such as eating well and getting enough sleep, plus getting some activity into your day – even stretching, deep breathing or a short walk make a difference;

• Strong social connections outside, and inside, work help reduce stress and increase resilience, so make time to maintain contact with family, friends and colleagues.

• The Samaritans has turned ‘Blue Monday’ into ‘Brew Monday’ and is encouraging everyone to keep connected by having a cuppa and a chat;

• Take proper breaks at work, including getting away from your desk and even out of the workplace if possible;

• Set boundaries between work and home – tricky if your work is hybrid or entirely remote, but ensuring you only work from a certain area of your home, ideally away from where you usually relax, helps;

• Ask for help if you need it – the Printing Charity helpline is available for you, and you can also use the support available within your organisation.

Because there is no set schedule for those times when life just doesn’t go according to plan, the Printing Charity is available for anyone working in print, paper, packaging, graphics and publishing, 365 days of the year.

The charity’s free, confidential and independent helpline provides in the moment emotional support 24 hours a day, every day, and can be reached on 0333 212 3534. No problem is too big, or too small, to call.