Overview
- The label traces to a 2005 travel‑industry PR campaign by Sky Travel built on an unvalidated formula attributed to psychologist Cliff Arnall.
- Clinical experts and professional bodies say there is no scientific basis for designating a single day as the most depressing and caution that the meme can trivialize disorders like major depression.
- Reports highlight real January pressures—reduced daylight and winter weather in the north, post‑holiday financial strain, and the return to routine—that may affect mood unevenly across people and regions.
- Public‑health messaging leverages the moment to promote regular sleep, physical activity, daylight exposure, balanced diet and maintaining social contact as practical steps.
- Guidance urges seeking professional help when low mood is persistent, intense or interferes with daily life instead of attributing distress to a date on the calendar.