‘Blue Monday’ for Swindon & District Samaritans, is ‘Brew Monday’. When the team of volunteers encourage us all to sit down and have a chat. As Co-Branch Director, Bob, said “Brew Monday is an opportunity for everyone to check in with those we care about. Making time for anyone we might be worried about to have a chat and tell us how they are really feeling. It might seem simple to some or impossible to others, but we know the difference it can make to someone who is struggling.” “So, let’s pop on those kettles, break out those biscuits and turn small talk into big talk. It might just save someone’s life.”
What is ‘Blue Monday’? Why is it called that? It is recognised that the third Monday in January can be the most depressing day of the year due to factors like post-holiday debt, cold weather, and failed New Year’s resolutions. When any of us are most likely to get ‘the blues’. The Samaritans see this day as being important, and an opportunity for us to be aware, willing to have a conversation and maybe share a cup of tea and biscuit. Brew Monday.
A recent survey by Samaritans which found one in five people never talk about their feelings (18%) while a further fifth only talk about their feelings once a month (20%).
The suicide prevention charity is centred on the power of human connection and its awareness campaign encourages people to come together and have a conversation with someone they are worried about because it could save a life.
Samaritans’ partner, Three UK, is sponsoring Brew Monday this year as part of their mission to make connections matter.
Anyone can contact Samaritans, free, any time from any phone on 116 123, or email jo@samaritans.org or visit www.samaritans.org
Awards for Marlborough Tennis and the team in Port Hill keep coming……
