Today is "Blue Monday".
You may have heard of "Blue Monday" - the third Monday of January that is often dubbed as the most depressing day of the year.
The concept of "Blue Monday" is based on a formula that took into account factors such as weather, debt, time since Christmas, and time since failing New Year's resolutions. The term "Blue Monday" has been used to describe today as it is allegedly the day with the highest likelihood of people experiencing feelings of sadness, depression, and despair.
For young adults from racialised backgrounds, the experience of "Blue Monday" can be even more complex. Racialised communities can experience additional stressors such as discrimination and marginalisation that can lead to higher rates of mental health issues. These experiences can be further exacerbated by the societal pressure to put on a brave face and suppress emotions, particularly during a time when people are expected to be energised, motivated and in good spirits.
It's important to understand that the pressure to be happy and celebratory at the start of a new year can be overwhelming and unrealistic. It's okay to not feel okay, and it's important to give yourself the space and time to process any negative emotions you may be experiencing.
It's also important to remember that self-care is key. This can mean different things for different people, but some examples include:
Taking a mental health day from work or studies
Practising mindfulness or meditation
Engaging in hobbies or activities that bring joy
Spending time with loved ones
Seeking professional help if needed
Healing and coping with mental health issues is a journey, not a destination. It's not something that can be fixed overnight, but with the right support and understanding, we can improve our mental well-being.
Finally, it's worth mentioning that there are resources for young adults from racialised backgrounds, such as therapy and support groups that provide culturally competent and understanding of their unique experiences.
Blue Monday can be a difficult day for anyone, but it's important to remember that you're not alone and that help is available.
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