Monday 19th January 2026 is known as ‘Blue Monday’, Woman Alive deputy editor, Jemimah Wright explains the background of the day, and gives some biblical hope for you if you are feeling low.
The 19th of January is often referred to as Blue Monday, a day popularly labelled as the most depressing day of the year. While the idea is not rooted in medical science, it has become part of modern culture and resonates with many people’s lived experience. The term was coined in the early 2000s through a marketing campaign that combined factors such as cold weather, post-Christmas financial strain, fading New Year’s resolutions, and the long stretch until spring. Whether or not the formula behind it is credible, the feelings associated with Blue Monday are very real.
By mid-January, the sparkle of Christmas has faded.
By mid-January, the sparkle of Christmas has faded. The days are still short and dark, motivation can feel low, and the realities of everyday life have returned. We may feel tired, discouraged, or disappointed that the new year has not brought immediate change. It is not surprising, then, that many of us feel a little “blue.”
READ MORE: Let God help you redefine ‘Blue Monday’
Yet as people of faith, we are invited to look beyond our circumstances and anchor our hearts in the unchanging goodness of God.
Yet as people of faith, we are invited to look beyond our circumstances and anchor our hearts in the unchanging goodness of God. Scripture reminds us that while seasons shift and emotions fluctuate, God’s promises remain firm. As we step into a new year, here are twelve biblical promises, one for each month, that can sustain us, even on Blue Monday.
READ MORE: Biblical advice for beating the blues and finding joy in January
January – God is with us.
“The Lord himself goes before you and will be with you.” (Deuteronomy 31:8)
February – God loves us deeply.
“Nothing…will be able to separate us from the love of God.” (Romans 8:39)
March – God gives us strength.
“I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me.” (Philippians 4:13)
April – God renews us.
“Those who hope in the Lord will renew their strength.” (Isaiah 40:31)
READ MORE: Investing in your self-esteem isn’t selfish, it’s biblical
May – God guides our steps.
“Trust in the Lord with all your heart.” (Proverbs 3:5–6)
June – God provides what we need.
“And my God will meet all your needs.” (Philippians 4:19)
July – God gives rest.
“Come to me, all you who are weary.” (Matthew 11:28)
August – God works all things for good.
“In all things God works for the good of those who love him.” (Romans 8:28)
September – God gives wisdom.
“If any of you lacks wisdom, you should ask God.” (James 1:5)
October – God is our peace.
“The peace of God…will guard your hearts.” (Philippians 4:7)
November – God is faithful.
“The Lord is good to all.” (Psalm 145:9)
December – God brings hope and light.
“The light shines in the darkness.” (John 1:5)
Blue Monday may remind us of our fragility, but it can also redirect us to God’s faithfulness. Even when life feels heavy, his goodness remains constant. As we walk through this year, month by month, promise by promise, may we choose to trust not in how we feel, but in who God is.
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