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As Blue Monday rears its head once more, a leading London Psychiatrist says people should use this prompt to take care of their mental health and give their minds a bit of ‘tender loving care.’
That’s the view of Dr Daniel Masud, Consultant Psychiatrist at Schoen Clinic Chelsea in London.
Dr Daniel Masud specialises in the treatment and support of adults dealing with a wide range of mental wellbeing and mental health issues.
This year ‘Blue Monday’ falls on 20th January. It was originally coined by a travel company as a marketing tool, labelling it ‘the most depressing day of the year’ – a day where supposedly the weather in the UK is at its worst, people have already broken their New Year resolutions and moods could be at their lowest.
It has been picked up annually in a huge way ever since – and Dr Masud has said Blue Monday publicity could work in everyone’s favour by highlighting the pressures people face in modern life, particularly men under 50, one of the highest demographic sectors at risk of suicide.
According to official government figures (note 1) in 2022, there were 5,642 suicides registered in England and Wales, with three-quarters being men (74.1%). The second-highest age group of those men were age between 44 and 49-years-old.
Dr Masud explained why men aged 44–49 are at higher risk of suicide. He said: “Several complex factors contribute to the increased risk of suicide in men within this age group.”
“Men in their mid-to-late 40’s often face significant life pressures including career stagnation, job insecurity, financial strain and the pressures of providing for family. Many may feel they have not achieved the personal or professional goals they had envisioned for themselves.
“Divorce and relationship breakdowns are more common in this age group, leading to feelings of loneliness, isolation and a loss of social support. Men are generally less likely to maintain strong social networks compared to women, increasing vulnerability to isolation.”
He added: “Men in this age group could also face emerging physical health issues, such as chronic illness or reduced physical fitness, which can impact mental well-being. There may also be undiagnosed or untreated mental health conditions, as men are often less likely to seek help for emotional struggles.”
Dr Masud explained there are still stigmas around mental health, which means men are discouraged from expressing vulnerability, leading to suppressed emotions and reluctance to seek support. Many may feel that discussing mental health challenges is a sign of weakness.
He added some men may turn to alcohol or drugs as a way to cope with stress or emotional pain, which can make mental health problems worse and increase impulsivity and risk-taking behaviours.
Dr Masud suggested several proactive steps men can take to look after their mental wellbeing: “Men need to open up to friends, family, or mental health professionals, which can ease emotional burdens. It’s important to remember that seeking help is a strength, not a weakness.
“They must stay connected. Maintaining relationships with friends and family can provide emotional support. Even small social interactions can make a significant difference.
“It is important to manage stress; learning healthy coping strategies such as mindfulness, meditation, or engaging in hobbies, can improve resilience.
He added regular exercise, a balanced diet, and adequate sleep have proven benefits for mental wellbeing. Reducing alcohol intake and avoiding drugs is also crucial.
And finally they should seek professional help: Dr Masud said consulting a GP or mental health professional when struggling with low mood, anxiety, or overwhelming thoughts is vital. There are many effective treatments available, including therapy and medication.
He pointed out family and friends can play a critical role in identifying when someone may be struggling. Warning signs to be mindful of include:
Withdrawal from social activities, family, and friends
Expressing feelings of hopelessness or being a burden
Sudden mood changes - either extreme sadness or calmness after a period of distress
Talking about death or suicide, even indirectly, such as: “Everyone would be better off without me”
Changes in sleep patterns, appetite or personal hygiene
Increased use of alcohol or drugs
Loss of interest in hobbies or activities once enjoyed
Dr Masud emphasises that while Blue Monday could be a challenge, it also presents an opportunity to check in on ourselves and each other. Taking even small steps towards better mental health can have a lasting impact.
He concluded: “If you or someone you know is struggling, please seek support. Help is available.”
Schoen Clinic Chelsea, London is a leading private mental health and well-being clinic, helping children and adults with a wide range of mental health conditions. For more information about their work please call 020 3146 2300 or visit their website at https://www.schoen-clinic.co.uk/chelsea
ENDS
Note 1: Statistics can be found here: https://www.ons.gov.uk/peoplepopulationandcommunity/birthsdeathsandmarriages/deaths/bulletins/suicidesintheunitedkingdom/2022registrations
Note 2: High-resolution pictures are available on request.
About Schoen Clinic UK Group
The Schoen Clinic Group was founded in 1985 and has since developed into Germany's fifth-largest privately-owned hospital group. It currently treats 300,000+ patients annually at 46 hospitals and clinics in Germany and the UK. The group also includes the leading online telemedicine clinic: MindDoc.
Schoen Clinic entered the UK healthcare market in 2017 providing award-winning, expert-led healthcare super-specialising in certain areas of medicine – now mental health, including dementia care.
About Dr Masud
Dr Daniel Masud, BMBS, BMedSci (Hons), MRCPsych is a Consultant General & Addictions Psychiatrist, and ADHD Specialist.
He has worked in both outpatient and inpatient settings, as well as specialised services. He honed his skills through training in Nottingham, where he held diverse specialist positions alongside experts in the field, earning an endorsement in Addiction Psychiatry.
Throughout his professional journey, he has assumed various senior leadership roles within the NHS and private sector as a Consultant in General Adult and Addiction Psychiatry.
Media contact
Rodney Kumar: PR Manager, WSA Communications
Phone: 01908 371177