What It Does to Your Health
Feeling anxious at the start of the workweek isn’t just a passing mood, it could be an early warning sign of long-term health risks.
The “Monday Blues” Explained
The Monday Blues refer to that uneasy feeling many people experience at the beginning of the workweek. Unlike the “Sunday Scaries,” which hit before the week starts, Monday anxiety often spikes as soon as the day begins. A new study shows this anxiety can have lasting effects on the body.
Stress Hormones Stay Elevated
Researchers found that older adults who feel anxious on Mondays have up to 25% higher cortisol levels, a stress hormone, in their hair samples. These elevated levels were seen even two months later, suggesting long-term stress buildup.
Heart Risks and More
The study also found a 20% increase in heart attacks on Mondays, which scientists say is likely tied to this stress pattern. Long-term stress impacts the body’s HPA axis, a system that controls stress responses. When this system is overactive, it can lead to heart disease, high blood pressure, and immune issues.
Still Stressed After Retirement
Interestingly, this Monday anxiety doesn’t disappear after leaving work. Even retired participants showed the same stress patterns, proving the connection goes beyond the workplace.
Not Just About Work
“This isn’t about work,” said co-author Tarani Chandola. “It’s about how deeply Mondays affect our biology.”
The findings suggest that helping people manage Monday-specific stress could be a key to improving long-term health, especially in older adults.
