Today is Blue Monday, which is said to be the most depressing day of the most depressing week of the entire year. Blue Monday occurs on the Monday of the last full week of January. Depression is thought to be at its peak for many people during this time of year and sadly, the most suicides of the year occur on Blue Monday.

So, why is today thought to be the most depressing day of the whole year? According to a British researcher, it is a combination of post holiday blues, Seasonal Affective Disorder, the weather, and other things that come along with the New Year like credit card bills from Christmas and failed New Year’s Resolutions.

You may be wondering why am I writing about this in an adoption blog? Because I feel like that as birthmothers we are already prone to depression after big holidays an when you add in the fact that the general public (who isn’t dealing with birthmother related issues) has problems during this time of the year, that makes us as birthmoms likely too as well.

What can you do to get through any time that is depressing whether it be Blue Monday related, adoption related, or just general life blues? There are simple little pick me up ideas such as:

• Read a good book (something light and not too emotional would probably be best)


• Pamper yourself by getting a manicure, facial, or a spa treatment. If you can’t afford to go out and pay someone to do something like that, invite some friends over and make a little girl’s night out of it.


• Get out of the house and do something outdoors if the weather permits you too.


• Spend time with family or friends.


• Talk to a therapist, minister, counselor, or a trusted friend.

Light therapy can also be helpful for those who are suffering from weather related depression like Seasonal Affective Disorder.

As always, if you notice that you are severely depressed or your depression is continuing for an extended amount of time, contact your doctor, health care provider, or therapist.

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Related Posts:
Post Holiday Blues
When Grief Turns into Depression