Brew Monday is the new Blue Monday

The third Monday in January is thought by many to be the saddest day of the year due to the end of the festive season. The weather is at its worst, the days are short and on top of financial worry, a national lockdown.

But please do not despair, take this as an opportunity to reach out and check in on someone you love or you may think is struggling.

The Samaritans are encouraging everyone to reach out to others, turning this ‘Blue Monday’ into ‘Brew Monday’, because feeling alone with your problems can have a big impact on your mental health, so this is the perfect time to reach out to a friend, family member, or colleague for a virtual cuppa and a chat.

Of course, it doesn’t have to be Monday, or a cup of tea, the important thing is to take time to really listen to another person and allow them to work through what’s on their mind.

Because now more than ever, sharing a cuppa is more than just sharing a drink – it’s reaching out, checking in, and staying connected.

Share the warmth and socialise safely or connect virtually. Connect with a friend or family member over the phone or have a group call using one of the many available online resources (Skype, Teams, WhatsApp, Zoom, Facebook.)

Here are some little tips you can use to help someone open up when something’s up.

Find out more about Brew Monday and the work the Samaritans do.