"Mental Health Research UK hopes to make a big visual impact on Blue Monday each year."

Campaign aims to raise awareness of mental health issues

BVNA Council donned their brightest items of clothing today (18 January) to help turn 'Blue Monday' into 'Blooming Monday'.

Mental Health Research UK is leading the campaign to help raise awareness of mental health issues.

Blue Monday usually falls on the third week in January and is commonly known as the most depressing day of the year. It comes after Christmas has ended when there is still a long way to go until spring and the weather is often cold, dark and gloomy.

Explaining the reasons behind the campaign, the charity says: "The concept of Mental Health Research UK's campaign is simple; we ask everyone to wear their brightest clothes that day. Even if workplaces usually require sombre attire, we hope that on this one day a year employees will be encouraged to brighten up.

"Mental Health Research UK hopes to make a big visual impact on Blue Monday each year. So on the third Monday in January inject some unexpected colour and joy. Instead of Blue Monday, it will become Blooming Monday! Ditch the greys and drab attire - wear bright clothes for charity on Blue Monday!"

People are also encouraged to donate £2 to Mental Health Research UK; all donations will go towards depression research.

To find out more, visit: http://www.mentalhealthresearchuk.org.uk/campaigns-1/read-more-about-blooming-monday

Image courtesy of BVNA