Turning the bluest day into a brighter one for your employees

As we step into a new year full of possibilities, there’s one date in January that often looms large: Blue Monday, known as the “most depressing day of the year". Blue Monday falls on the third Monday of January each year (this year, Monday 20th January). This label originated from a mix of post-holiday blues, gloomy weather, financial pinch, and those well-intentioned New Year’s resolutions that might already feel out of reach.

While the concept of Blue Monday has its critics (after all, emotions can’t be boiled down to a single day), it still resonates with many as a reflection of the challenges that often define this time of year. With financial pressures and the post-holiday slump, it’s undeniable that January can be tough. From an HR perspective, this is a prime opportunity to check in with your team and make meaningful interventions that support wellbeing in the workplace.

Here are some simple yet effective ways you can acknowledge Blue Monday and foster a positive, supportive environment for your employees:

Start the Conversation

A simple acknowledgment of the day can make a big difference. Perhaps an email to your team or a brief mention in a meeting—opening up the conversation around mental health helps to normalise it. Blue Monday is not about being blue but is a reminder to show compassion and encourage people to share how they’re feeling.

Incentives

On the day, you could consider implementing small initiatives to lift spirits. For example, organise a breakfast, get the coffees in, or offer a lunchtime snack or a naughty sweet treat to brighten the day.

A longer-term incentive could involve encouraging light exercise by hosting a weekly company exercise or yoga session or encouraging a group walk to break up the day.

Flexible work options, if possible for your company and the employees’ roles, might be worth considering, such as offering flexible hours or remote working options to ease the pressure.

Promote Resources and Support

Does your organisation have access to Employee Assistance Programmes (EAPs)? EAPs are often part of company health cover programmes and are a valuable resource. In Guernsey, local charities such as Guernsey Mind provide fantastic support, so consider sharing their contact details or arranging a workplace session. You can even train to become a Mental Health First Aider.

Focus on Positivity and Purpose

Blue Monday can be a great moment to celebrate small wins. Share successes from the start of the year or spotlight individual and team contributions. Feeling appreciated goes a long way in boosting morale.

Encourage Goal Setting (Realistically!)

January is often a time for goal setting, but overly ambitious targets can quickly lead to frustration. Encourage your employees to set manageable and achievable goals for the workplace and even outside of work.

Blue Monday may have its roots in marketing—we can’t deny that—but it gives us an opportunity to pause and prioritise mental health in the workplace. By addressing the challenges of this time of year with empathy and action, you can support your teams not just on one day, but throughout the year.