In the past week alone, Google searches for ‘when is Blue Monday’ have surged by 800%, as the nation prepares for the post-festive, January blues.
However, Dr Imren Sterno, AXA Health Insurance’s Lead Clinical Psychologist, has revealed why people may feel sad in January, and reveals five ways to boost wellbeing in the new year.
Mental health awareness shouldn’t stop at “Blue Monday”
The third Monday in January has largely been associated with being the most depressing day of the year. Aptly titled, Blue Monday, thousands of Brits are preparing for changes in their mood and wellbeing on January 19th, 2026*. However, Dr Sterno urges people that mental health can affect people on any day, not just on Blue Monday.
Dr Sterno reveals, “Labelling one day in the year as the ‘most depressing’ oversimplifies how mental health works.”
“Many people may experience feelings of lower moods in January, due to a combination of factors, such as darker days, post-festive fatigue, financial pressures and even symptoms of Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD). If you think you’re suffering from low moods or depression, it’s important to speak to a healthcare professional.”
Five ways to boost wellbeing this January according to a doctor
According to Dr Sterno, January often represents a period of re-adjustment, which can heighten feelings of lower moods.
Dr Sterno reveals, “The festive season tends to disrupt routines and offer increased social connection and anticipation, which can be positive for some, and when this ends, people find this impacts on their mood negatively as they return to the structure and responsibilities of day-to-day life.”
“Paired with reduced daylight, colder weather, and high expectations around New Year's resolutions, can increase pressure and self-criticism. These factors can combine to make January feel like an emotionally heavier month.”
- Be kind to yourself - “January is often framed as a month for major change, but unrealistic expectations can lead to increased stress. Instead of trying to change your life in January alone, focus on small, achievable goals instead of drastic resolutions. Celebrate your progress, however minor, and practise self-compassion, remind yourself that periods of lower moods are normal and often only temporary.”
- Get active - “Exercise is one of the most effective ways to boost mood and wellbeing. Even just short bursts of exercise, such as stretching, walking or a quick home workout, can release endorphins and help reduce stress*.”
- Nourish your body - “Eating a diet rich in vitamins, minerals, and protein supports both mental and physical health. Throughout January, it is essential to ensure you are eating healthy meals, staying hydrated and reducing highly processed or excess sugar. Processed and overly sugary foods can cause energy spikes followed by crashes, which can increase feelings of fatigue or low mood.”
- Get outdoors - “Spending time outside is crucial for both physical and mental health, even during the cold, dark January days. A short walk, time in a garden, or simply sitting by a window with natural light can boost mood, help regulate sleep, and improve vitamin D levels. Regular exposure to daylight throughout January can support circadian rhythms and help counteract Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD)*.”
- Reach out to friends and family - “Maintaining social connections is essential for wellbeing, especially during the winter months. Reaching out to friends or family, even for a quick chat, text, or video call, can help reduce feelings of isolation and provide emotional support. Talking about how you feel can be frightening or something that is not natural to you. However, you can start small, by simply spending time with others, it can improve mood, give perspective, and help you feel more connected.”
Methodology
*GLIMPSE Google Trends Search Data - correct as of 09/01/2026
*https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/newsbeat-51173730
*https://www.axahealth.co.uk/staying-healthy/mental-health/signs-of-sad/
