Beating the January Blues: Supporting Colleagues and Boosting Workplace Wellbeing

Jess Porter
Health & Wellbeing Specialist

January can feel like a tough month for many of us. The festive cheer has faded, the days are still dark, the weather is gloomy, and payday often feels like it’s an eternity away. Add to that the post-holiday workload, and it’s no wonder that January is often associated with a collective sense of low energy.

You may have heard of ‘Blue Monday’ – this year Monday 15th January – dubbed “the most depressing day of the year.” While there’s no scientific basis for this title (even if some have tried to prove it), it serves as a timely reminder of how challenging this time of year can feel for employees and the importance of creating a supportive workplace environment.

But here’s the good news: with some simple initiatives we can help our teams feel more connected, appreciated, and uplifted this January.

What is Blue Monday, and why does it matter?

Blue Monday gained its reputation due to a mix of factors: post-holiday blues, financial stress, gloomy weather, and a lack of motivation. While these are common themes for mid-January, it’s important to remember that mental health challenges don’t adhere to the calendar—they can affect us all, any time of year.

To combat the stigma around this day, Samaritans have reframed it as ‘Brew Monday‘, encouraging us to connect with a friend, family member or colleague over a cuppa, spark conversation, and remind ourselves and others that we’re not alone. Whether it’s tea, coffee, or hot chocolate, sharing a hot drink and having a chat can make all the difference. For more on Brew Monday, visit Samaritans’ website.

How to support colleagues this January

Despite wider messages encouraging us to make goals and changes to our lifestyle, very few actually feel this revived sense of ‘New Year – New Me’ mentality! Here are some practical ideas to help lift spirits in your workplace:

1. Host a ‘Brew Monday’ gathering

Encourage teams to take 20 minutes to grab a drink and chat, virtually or in person. This informal time can create opportunities to spark conversation and help reduce feelings of isolation. At Parallel we like to do this daily at 3pm – it encourages a natural break and opportunity to connect.

2. Recognise and appreciate

Acknowledging hard work is always impactful, but it’s especially meaningful during difficult times. Take a moment to send a quick thank-you email, post a shout-out on your team chat, or highlight achievements during meetings.

3. Promote flexible working

January often comes with energy slumps. Offering flexibility with hours or remote options (where possible) can help employees better manage their workload and recharge.

4. Encourage time outdoors

Natural light and fresh air are proven mood boosters. Suggest walk-and-talk meetings or lunch breaks outdoors to help employees combat the winter blues.

5. Provide mental health resources

Signpost employees to mental health support, such as your Employee Assistance Programme (EAPs), or share resources like mindfulness apps and podcasts. If you don’t have one of these in place then please don’t hesitate to reach out and speak to us about how we can support.

6. Introduce small workplace perks

Consider simple, budget-friendly perks like providing snacks in the kitchen, a casual dress-down day and early Friday finish to boost morale.

Celebrate National Hug Day – virtually!

Tuesday 21st January is National Hug Day, and while physical hugs might not be appropriate in the workplace, the sentiment behind it can still be embraced. Use it as an opportunity to spread positivity and connection through “virtual hugs.”

• Write a personal note of appreciation to a colleague or team.
• Send a virtual kudos or shout-out on Slack, Teams, or your internal platform.
• Create a gratitude wall where employees can post positive notes for one another.
• Host a virtual “moment of thanks” during a team meeting to share successes and gratitude.

Looking beyond Blue Monday

While January may get the “Blue Monday” label, it’s important to remember that mental health and morale are year-round considerations. By encouraging small acts of kindness, providing flexibility, and showing appreciation, you can help employees feel valued and supported. Creating a supportive workplace culture is about fostering connection, communication, and appreciation throughout the year—not just in January.

Need More Support?

If you’d like further ideas or resources to support your colleagues’ wellbeing, don’t hesitate to get in touch with us – contact caroline.masterton@parallel-eb.co.uk // 020 8874 1230