Monday, January 19, 2026
Today marks Blue Monday, traditionally recognised as the third Monday in January, when many people experience a post-holiday slump. While the concept originated as a marketing campaign and lacks scientific backing as “the most depressing day of the year,” it serves as a meaningful reminder to prioritise our mental health during the winter months when seasonal factors can significantly affect mood and energy levels.
This year, Blue Monday arrives with a silver lining: 2026 is the UK’s National Year of Reading, a nationwide campaign led by the Department for Education and the National Literacy Trust to reconnect people of all ages with the joy and benefits of reading.
The Science-Backed Benefits of Reading
The timing couldn’t be more perfect. Research consistently demonstrates that reading offers powerful mental health benefits, making it an ideal tool for combating winter blues:
Stress Reduction: A study by Dr David Lewis found that reading for just six minutes can reduce stress levels by 68%, lowering heart rate and easing muscle tension. Reading proved more effective at stress reduction than music, tea, walking, or video games.
Improved Sleep: Reading before bed can reduce the time it takes to fall asleep and increase sleep duration, helping combat the fatigue that often accompanies winter months.
Enhanced Mental Health: Research shows recreational reading reduces psychological distress and can buffer against depression and anxiety. Some UK doctors now prescribe reading as part of the treatment for mental health conditions through bibliotherapy.
Cognitive Protection: Regular readers show a 32% lower rate of age-related mental decline. Reading keeps the brain active and may reduce the risk of dementia and Alzheimer’s disease.
Increased Empathy: Studies indicate that reading literary fiction improves our ability to understand others’ feelings and beliefs, strengthening social connections that are especially important during the isolating winter months.
Go All In This Year
The National Year of Reading 2026 encourages everyone to “Go All In” on their passions through reading. Whether you love football, music, cooking, nature, or technology, there’s reading material that connects to what already inspires you.
From graphic novels and podcasts to articles and traditional books, all forms of reading count. The campaign features ambassadors including Leah Williamson, Richard Osman, and Michael Morpurgo, and offers resources for families, schools, libraries, and communities throughout the year.
Small Steps, Big Impact
You don’t need hours to benefit from reading. Research suggests that even 20 minutes daily can make a significant difference to your mental and physical health. Consider:
- Swapping phone scrolling for reading once a day
- Joining a book club for social connection
- Exploring topics you’re genuinely curious about
- Reading before bedtime as part of a relaxation routine
This Blue Monday, instead of feeling down about the date, consider it an invitation to discover – or rediscover – the transformative power of reading. Your mental health will thank you.
Learn more about the National Year of Reading at goallin.org.uk
If you’re struggling with your mental health, please reach out to a healthcare professional or contact mental health support services such as Mind, Samaritans, or your local crisis helpline.
ARROW GATE PUBLISHING 