Have you ever returned from an amazing adventure, only to feel like something is missing? Perhaps your vibrant Erasmus life has been replaced by the quieter rhythm of your hometown, and everything feels a little... blue. If you’ve experienced this, you might already know what Blue Monday is about. But spoiler alert: it’s not just the iconic New Order track that’s been a club favorite since 1983. Let’s dive into what makes this phenomenon so relatable, especially for international students.
Blue Monday, often dubbed "the most depressing day of the year," falls on the third Monday of January. The term originated from a mix of factors: post-holiday blues, dreary winter weather, financial stress, and dwindling New Year’s resolutions. But for students coming back from Erasmus, this feeling isn’t limited to just one day — it’s a season of adjustment, a rollercoaster of emotions that leaves you longing for the vibrant moments of your exchange.
During Erasmus, your life is a whirlwind of new experiences: meeting people from all over the world, exploring unfamiliar cities, and feeling like you’re part of something extraordinary. But when it’s over, the contrast can be striking. Suddenly, the streets of your hometown seem smaller, your old routines less exciting, and the people around you don’t fully understand the transformative journey you’ve been through.
Psychologists call this "reverse culture shock," and it’s a real challenge. You’ve grown, but your environment might not have changed at the same pace. It’s like dancing to the beat of Blue Monday—a song that’s both nostalgic and melancholic, just like the memories of your Erasmus days.
So, how do you get through this post-Erasmus slump? Here are some tips to help you navigate this tricky time. Keep in touch with the friends you made abroad. Whether it’s through late-night video calls or planning reunions, these connections will remind you that the world is still wide open. Bring some of that Erasmus spirit into your everyday life. Organize international dinners, join cultural clubs, or even become a mentor for new exchange students. Use this time to reflect on how much you’ve grown. What skills or perspectives did you gain? How can you channel them into your future goals?
Having something to look forward to can work wonders. Whether it’s a weekend trip, learning a new language, or applying for another exchange, keep the wanderlust alive.
Blue Monday isn’t just a moment of sadness—it’s a reminder of how deeply experiences can shape us. And much like the iconic New Order song, it’s bittersweet but ultimately empowering. After all, isn’t it incredible that something as fleeting as a semester abroad can leave such a lasting mark on your soul?
So the next time someone mentions Blue Monday, you can smile and say, "Yeah, I know what that’s like." Because whether it’s through a song or a memory, it’s proof that even the bluest moments can lead to something brighter.
Leonardo Brecchia