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Blue Monday? Here’s Some Military Inspiration To Take The Edge Off Your Blues

Handshake Trainer Trainee British Army Somali Soldier Blue Credit Defence Imagery ID 45163189

Today is claimed to be the most depressing day of the year, when the weather, financial pressures and the end of the holidays can get us down.

The date is calculated using an equation that takes into account weather conditions in the northern hemisphere, number of days after Christmas and paydays.

Critics might point out that Blue Monday is likely a media invention, as it originated from a travel company campaign more than a decade ago, and that most people cope just as well at this time of year but medical professionals say the concept has some merits as the winter months can take their toll on mental health.

Take a moment for yourself today, put your feet up with a cup of something warm and enjoy this collection of blue photos showcasing the best of Britain's Armed Forces photographers to lift your spirits and gain some inspiration.

One of the world’s top aerobatic teams, The Red Arrows, are renowned throughout the world, acting as ambassadors of Great Britain with their breathtaking displays.

The Red Arrows RAF Cranwell Royal Air Force Diamond Formation Blue Credit Defence Imagery 2013 — Credit: Royal Air Force / 2013

The sun sets on a Tornado F3 of the Quick Reaction Alert Force based at Mount Pleasant Complex (MPC) in the Falkland Islands in 2007.

F3 Tornado of the Quick Reaction Alert Force based at Mount Pleasant Complex in the Falkland Islands Blue. Credit Defence Imagery — Credit: MOD / 2007

A Warthog Armoured Vehicle is silhouetted in the early morning Afghanistan sun in July 2011.

A Warthog Armoured Vehicle is silhouetted in the early morning Afghanistan sun Blue. Credit Defence Imagery — Credit: British Army / 2011

Pictured below a diver is captured during a leisure dive for members of HMS Cornwall's ships company, during a break in operations in Oman.

Scuba Diving Oman Sub Aqua Diver Blue Defence Imagery ID 45152205 — Credit: Royal Navy / 2011

Action Stations: Operations Room staff onboard destroyer HMS Edinburgh are pictured during an exercise in 2011.

Operations Room Staff Destroyer HMS Edinburgh Blue Credit Defence Imagery 2011 — Credit: Royal Navy / 2011

Climbing through mysterious ice chambers Royal Marines explore the stunning beauty of Antarctica.

Climbing Ice Chamber Royal Marines Antarctica Blue ID 45153988 Credit Defence Imagery Royal Navy — Credit: Royal Navy / 2012

United Nations troops rush towards a Whirlwind HAR.10 helicopter of 84 Squadron based at Akrotiri, Cyprus in October 1977.

United Nations UN Troops Whirlwind HAR.10 Helicopter Akrotiri Cyprus 27 October 1977 Blue Defence Imagery ID 45163612 — Credit: Air Historical Branch - RAF / 1977

A member of the British Army training team from 39 Engineer Regiment, The Corps of Royal Engineers in Somalia on Operation Tangham.

More from Forces Network: What Are British Troops Doing In Somalia?

39 Engineer Regiment The Corps of Royal Engineers Somalia Operation Tangham Blue Defence Imagery ID 45163199 — Credit: British Army / 2017

The day might be a media indulgence but aside from the triviality of Monday blues, there are those who do find this time of year difficult.

There is help out there for those who need it.

If you need to speak to someone you can contact Combat Stress - or contact the charity's helpline 0800 138 1619, or text 07537 404 719.

Photos: Defence Imagery / Crown Copyright

Top Main Picture: A handshake between trainer and trainee, in front of a group of British Army trainers mentoring Somali soldiers on vehicle maintenance during Operation Tangham.