If you’re feeling a little down in the dumps today, you’re not alone. Researchers in England have declared today Blue Monday: the unhappiest day of the year.

Dr Cliff Arnall, a Cardiff University psychologist, devised the formula that shows today is the most depressing.

His equation takes into account six factors: weather, debt, time since Christmas, time since failing our new year’s resolutions, low motivational levels and the feeling of a need to take action.

Taken together they pinpoint today as ‘Blue Monday’.

I’m not sure I believe that there can be a single day of the year that is more prone to cause depression than any other, but if you’re feeling a little down in the dumps take steps to make yourself feel better. Make a list of things you are thankful for. Make a “Ta-Da!” list of things you’ve accomplished instead of a to-do list.

And, if you’re feeling a little blue about the resolutions you may or may not be keeping, why not try the 31 things in 31 days plan to accomplish a few little things instead of one big one; pick and choose from among their many good ideas. I especially like the idea of making a list of 10 or 15 “fun” resolutions that are easy to keep. It’s never too late!