Blue Monday is a Myth
The third Monday in January, this year, January 16, is often called “Blue Monday,” as it is thought to be the most depressing day of the year –but this simply isn’t true.
“Blue Monday” is purported to be the day when people feel most depressed, and this correlates with another myth – that most suicides occur around this time of year. In fact, the suicide rate is fairly consistent throughout the year, peaking just slightly in the spring and summer.
It is true that many people feel a bit down around this time of year; the weather is chilly, the holidays are over, and perhaps our bank accounts are a bit emptier than usual. However, there is a huge difference between feeling a bit down and feeling depressed and suicidal.
We at the Centre for Suicide Prevention want to dispel the myth of Blue Monday because it oversimplifies depression and suicide. This myth takes away from the fact that some people are really struggling; depression is not something brought on simply by gloomy weather or an empty bank account. It is a real mental illness that affects people at any time of the year.
“Suicide is complex because people are complex, and there is rarely just one reason why a person chooses to end their own life,” says Mara Grunau, Executive Director at the Centre for Suicide Prevention. “We’re hardwired to live, and people will only consider suicide when they see no other options.”
Mark Skowron, who lost his son Evan to suicide several years ago can attest to the complexity of suicide and depression. Skowron organizes a golf tournament annually to help build connections amongst people and to bring awareness to suicide prevention.
There is hope for those who are suicidal, and this time of year is as good as any to reach out to someone you think may be struggling. If you know someone who is suicidal, ask them directly if they are thinking about suicide, and connect them with help. If you are suicidal, contact your local crisis centre; they can help!
If you are feeling suicidal, or know someone who is, call the Distress Centre: 1-403-266-4357
Click here to view this year’s press release about Blue Monday
Last year’s blog, providing more information on the history of the myth
Image courtesy of Daniel via flickr
Blue Monday not indicator of real depression: mental health experts
The third Monday of every January has notoriously been labelled Blue Monday- the most depressing day of the year. The idea was started as a marketing gimmick by a travel agency. Yes, the weather may be cold and there may not be a lot of sunlight.
It’s official, Calgary: Blue Monday is a myth | Metro Calgary
You’ve probably heard the term ‘Blue Monday’ – an urban myth that the third Monday in January is the most depressing day of the year. That label trivializes the struggle of people who have depression and feel its grip year-round, according to Mara Grunau, director of the Centre for Suicide Prevention in Calgary.
Upcoming Blue Monday contains myths: Experts | Metro Edmonton
Blue Monday is the third Monday in January and known as the day when the post-holiday crash and lack of light collide to give many a serious case of the blues. Or is it?
Letter: Blue Monday is a Myth
The third Monday in January, this year, January 16, is often called “Blue Monday,” as it is thought to be the most depressing day of the year -but this simply isn’t true. “Blue Monday” is purported to be the day when people feel most depressed, and this correlates with another myth – that most suicides occur around this time of year.