In 2005, psychologist Cliff Arnall coined the term “Blue Monday” as part of a marketing campaign for a British travel agency to encourage people to book a holiday during the winter. Using a pseudo-scientific formula, the third Monday in January was determined to be the “bluest” day of the year, marked by sadness, low energy and withdrawal from social interaction.
Although Blue Monday has been debunked, the feelings associated with a colder, darker season are real.
Seasonal affective disorder (SAD) is a recognized form of depression connected to seasonal variation, with symptoms such as fatigue, irritability, appetite changes, loss of interest in pleasurable activities and feelings of hopelessness. According to the Canadian Psychological Association, approximately 15 per cent of Canadians report at least some symptoms of SAD.
