Scientists at Delft University of Technology in the Netherlands have found that the "Sunday blues" peak at around 7pm, confirming that the familiar sense of dread before the working week is a genuine physical and psychological affliction rather than simply a dip in mood.
The study, led by Dr Zhuochao Peng and published in the journal Frontiers in Psychology, analysed global research, carried out focus groups and examined personal diaries to track how people feel as the weekend draws to a close.
Researchers found the blues were triggered by frustration over an unfulfilled weekend and the impending stress of the coming week. People involved in the research described feelings of "sadness, regret, and emptiness, as well as anxiety and stress."
Alongside the emotional toll, the researchers identified eight physical symptoms linked to the phenomenon: fatigue, restlessness, increased heart rate, stomach discomfort, food cravings, muscle tension and tearfulness.
Feelings of regret and irritability
Dr Peng said many people feel regret over not making the most of their weekend or feel they have not had enough rest or personal time. "Decreased patience or tolerance also surfaced, with several noting a heightened sensitivity to minor frustrations and a tendency to respond more harshly than usual," he said.
"As Sunday evening unfolded, many described a sudden realisation of losing a time for fun and relaxation, often leaving them feeling sad," he added.
Scale of the Sunday scaries
Previous research cited in the study suggests around eight out of ten people are affected by changes in mood on a Sunday evening. Delft University of Technology, where the research was led, is one of the largest technical universities in the Netherlands, while Frontiers in Psychology is a peer-reviewed academic journal covering psychological research.
Coping strategies
The study also found that people use a range of coping strategies to fight off the Sunday blues, including taking long showers, cuddling pets, indulging in a favourite tipple, playing board games and watching comedies on television.
