First published on Wednesday, January 14, 2026
Last updated on Wednesday, January 14, 2026
While January is often a month of new goals and resolutions, it can also be a challenging time for many employers. Blue Monday isn’t a widely used term in Canada, but the third Monday in January has been not-so-funly dubbed “the most depressing day of the year”.
In 2026, Blue Monday falls on January 19th. Although there’s no scientific evidence behind the concept, factors like post-holiday blues and the return-to-work routine can make the first month of the year feel tough for anyone.
But here’s the silver lining: you can turn Blue Monday into an opportunity to foster mental health awareness in the workplace.
Today, we’re sharing practical strategies to help your team stay motivated and optimistic during this time, whether your team is remote, hybrid, or office-based.
Tips to make Blue Monday fun
1. Host an after-work happy hour
You can plan a fun event with your team to lift spirits. And if your team is remote, consider hosting a virtual happy hour or team building activity like an online escape room. It could be a great time for staff to catch up and bond outside of work.
2. Organize a mental health talk
Maintaining your employees’ mental health during this time is crucial to ensure they don’t slip into depression. You can invite a mental health expert to discuss no-pressure ways to maintain wellbeing during challenging times like taking walks, emphasizing self-care and eating healthy meals.
3. Connect employees to mental health resources
Remind your team about the mental health resources your business offers if available. If you don’t have an in-house Employee Assistance Program (EAP), you can share external resources, so employees know where to turn for support.
4. Recognize good work
It may seem small, but acknowledging employee efforts makes them feel valued. Organizing work socials, contests, or small gestures like shoutouts in team chats goes a long way to boosting employee morale and motivation.
5. Spread out the cheer
If your company has a social committee, consider making the week of Blue Monday a Mental Health Awareness Week so it’s not all doom and gloom. Taking part in activities across five days can encourage conversations about wellbeing in the workplace and turn the “most depressing day” into something positive.
Long-term steps to support mental health in the workplace
Adopt a Mental Health Policy
A clear mental health policy in your workplace provides guidance for employees and supervisors on handling mental health disclosures and accommodation requests. Integrate this into your workplace by including it in your employee handbook so it’s easily accessible to all staff.
Conduct frequent check-ins with remote staff
Working remotely often blurs the line between home life and the office. That’s why it’s important to check in virtually with employees who may be struggling to maintain boundaries. Review their workload and encourage work-life balance, to make sure your staff aren’t overworking themselves.
Look out for signs of poor mental health such as:
Stress or exhaustion
Decline in productivity
Changes in behavior
Increased absenteeism
If you notice any of these signs, it’s your cue to schedule a one-on-one chat to understand what support they may need.
Encourage regular breaks
Whether they’re office-based or remote, encourage your staff to take short breaks throughout the day, step outside for sunlight during lunch, and take their designated days off. Regular breaks from work are vital for maintaining energy, focus, and wellbeing.
Make Blue Monday Bright with BrightHR
Blue Monday doesn’t have to be gloomy. Your trusted people management partner is by your side, providing expert advice, trusted policies and guidance on proactive steps and thoughtful support. You can use this day, and the entire month of January, as an opportunity to promote positivity, connection, and mental health awareness in the workplace.
Interested in learning how? Speak to one of our experts today!
