Study: Last Monday of January most depressing day of the year

By: Erika Edwards NBC News | Alabama's13.com
Published: January 25, 2010

You probably did not get a good start this morning if you root for the Minnesota Vikings.

But Vikings and New York Jets fans aren't alone in feeling down after Sunday's losses.

That's because a British psychologist has informally declared today -- Monday of the last full week in January -- the most depressing day of the year.

It makes sense -- you're coming down from the high of the holidays... credit card bills are rolling in... and New Year's resolutions?

"All those people who made the New Years resolutions have now flunked," said Dr. Michael McKee, a Cleveland Clinic psychologist. "They're back to all their bad habits."

And the sun... where's the sun?! The lack of light may be what leads some people to develop Seasonal Affective Disorder -- a more serious form of the winter blahs.

"You feel like lead, you feel like a slug, but swing your legs over the side of the bed, get up," advised Dr. McKee. "And once you're up, get outside."

And get moving -- preferably with other people. Experts say depressed people tend to isolate themselves.

Light boxes can also help. They're available online.

"Literally you brighten up with the light," said Dr. McKee.

Or if blue skies are the only way to brighten your blue mood... you may consider a vacation down south.

Or cheer for the Colts or Saints on Super Bowl Sunday... and hope your new team's hot streak takes you right into spring.