Today I received lots of emails from companies I shop with.
The subject matter were things like: ‘you don’t need to be blue’, ‘we can help stop you feeling blue’, you probably know the sort of nonsense I mean.
I didn’t have a clue what it was about. Until I logged into the BBC News. There was a BBC Sounds feature on this very subject. Apparently it started with a holiday company 15 years ago – as a means of generating more sales.
And it’s taken off from there. Everybody’s in on it. Well, every company it seems. The idea is – if you are feeling low / depressed / ‘blue’ then buying stuff will help you out of whichever particular quagmire you are in. It could be make-up, a fabulous outfit, holiday, adventure, bits for your hobby, expensive watch, the list is endless. These companies have no limits, and by extension no shame. They are out to fleece the most vulnerable.
Statistically the third Monday of January is no more likely to make you feel ‘blue’ than any other Monday; January is no more likely to see you depressed than, say, February. I have been hospitalised for clinical depression in January and July, April and August. Depression does not mind when or where or how it strikes.
My thoughts
Putting ideas into people’s heads that they are likely to be low, and particularly low on a particular day of the year, and then offering them a quick-fix solution at a price is immoral. Vulnerable individuals should not, must not be taken advantage of.
I urge everyone to boycott these sales ‘scams’ because that is what they are.
And what about a conservatory?
My husband attended a meeting for service users and carers when I was particularly unwell. At this gathering one of the participants related the story of an acquaintance of hers who, upon hearing that she had depression, exclaimed ‘How can you be depressed? You have such a lovely conservatory.’
We still use this as a metaphor for the absolute ignorance about the nature of mental health that is in society today.
What are your thoughts on Blue Monday? Please share them in the Comments box below.
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Thank you for reading.
marilyn unmasked 
I hate to say it but I agree – you tell people they’re going to be low, they’re more likely to be low and dwell on that and the negatives in their lives and the day to day mundanities. It’s wrong to use it as a marketing ploy but some companies do. I think it can be used for good when it’s served as a reminder to care for ourselves, our wellbeing and mental health though. Can’t say I felt any more rubbish on Monday than usual, no day is exactly a jolly one so I can’t tell the difference 😂
Thought-provoking most, Marilyn.
Sending hugs your way, I hope you’re hanging in there okay..
Caz xxxx
Hi Caz,
Thank you, I’m doing OK. You may have read my Rock Face – another assessment, for another skills course. But hell you sign up for these things because you fear they’ll throw it in your face if you don’t.
Pain in the body and pain in the mind don’t care about the time, or the place.
Totally agree with making that day a positive. Although it began as a marketing ploy it would be brilliant if companies just donated to health charities/organisations – without the sales pitch.
Ironically blue is the Pantone colour of the year. I do so love a bit of lapis lazuli – or sodalite – or sapphire. 😁💎💙
BTW, did you locate the massage chair?
Love and hugs from Snowdonia.
Maz XXX