Workers encouraged to dress brightly to lift mood for Blue Monday

Although some think that bright colours are less professional, research links bright colours to a boost in mood.

17:55 17 January 2014

The third Monday of January, which is the 20th this year, is said to be the most depressing day of the year because of the combination of bad weather, increased debt, and poor diet brought by the festive season. For this reason, workers are now being encouraged to dress brightly to lift the mood on Blue Monday.

Mental Health Research UK is promoting its Blooming Monday campaign to raise awareness of depression and seasonal affective disorder which is particularly prevalent in the winter months due to lack of sunlight. It is also aimed to raise money for research into treatment.

Dr Laura Davidson, a mental health barrister and trustee of the charity, said: ‘Whilst wearing bright colours will not prevent depression, or SAD, plenty of research links mood and colour.

‘The perception that wearing dark colours in the workplace equates to professionalism is a fallacy. Clearly we need a culture change in the workplace.

'Mental Health Research UK urges employers to make a start in changing perceptions and lifting mood by taking part in Blooming Monday. We hope they'll embrace our call to brighten up for the day, and to transform the commute to work into a kaleidoscope of colour.

'Blooming Monday will encourage discussion about mental health and help to break down the stigma attached to it.

'It's a simple ask: that everyone wears their brightest clothes on one of the dullest days of the year.'