Blue Monday is the term coined to describe the day calculated to be the most depressing of the year.  Typically falling on the third Monday of January, it is said that the weather, our bank balances and returning to work after the Christmas party season all combine to make the most dismal day of the year.

Whether or not Blue Monday really is the most depressing day of the year is open to debate, but with research by Investors in People, showing thatnearly half of us are unhappy with our jobs, feeling demotivated about returning to work can be real for many people.

Blue Monday is a helpful reminder for employers to review how they are supporting their staff. The Health and Safety Executive report that last year,12.5 million working days were lost due to work-related stress, depression and anxiety, and pointed to lack of managerial support as a leading cause. The Investors in People research backs this up, with 49% citing poor managementas the main reason for wanting to leave their jobs.

Being responsible for the management of individuals and teams can be incredibly stressful so The Health Insurance Group says it’s imperative that managers aren’t forgotten. It is critical that managers receive support, not only to deal with any issues they may be experiencing themselves and in their role as managers. Otherwise, managers can become the cause of workplace stress and staff illness rather than part of the solution to reduce or avoid it.

Brett Hill, Managing Director, The Health Insurance Group said: "Managers shouldn’t be forgotten on Blue Monday. They have a fundamental role in maintaining staff morale and productivity. Support is available, and companies should take advice on the specific help they can put in place to help managers deal with staff issues before they develop into serious issues."

https://www.healthinsurancegroup.co.uk/