But does that mean Blue Monday is the saddest day of the year?
Thats up for debate.
Unsurprisingly, there was backlash.
Delmaine Donson/Getty Images
However, it is not possible to create a formula for depression that can be generalized to everyone.
Actual human feelings cant be calculated like made-up math problems.
And though Blue Monday isnt necessarily real, the sadness you might feel this time of year is.
What wedoknow is people may experience more depression during the winter months, Dr. McCutcheon says.
How could we not?
As note above, the post-holiday break comedown is impossible to deny…as are all thosepost-holiday-shoppingcredit card statements.
If such is the case for you, try not to dwell.
New Years resolutions that require complete emotional makeoverssimply dont work.
Instead, turn your focus to incorporating smaller,sustainable smart goalsinto your preexisting routine.
Can’t get a full night’s sleep?
Startor reviveyour group chat, and see if anyones up for a group walk or communal dinner.
Check out yourlocal gyms class offerings, or try a new and exciting recipe.
I did it a decade ago and never looked back.
Lets make 2025 the year you do too.
Finally, its important to note that occasional sadness is OK. Not to mention,sad girls are in.
Of course, theres a big difference between occasionally feeling down andactual depression.
There are medication and therapy options available to help, she says.
(Click here to find free online therapy.)
Remember: January wont last forever, and February is the shortest month.
Before you know it, itll be spring.
And thentoo hot, and youll ironically wish it was winter again.
