Every January when the weather is probably cold, wet and windy, and Christmas and New Year are a distant memory so-called ‘Blue Monday’ arrives. Swindon & District Samaritans don’t believe in ‘Blue Monday’, it’s a myth, and they will be turning this day into ‘Brew Monday’…. Encouraging friends and family to stay connected by having a cuppa and a catch-up.
The suicide prevention charity is keen to dispel the idea that the third Monday of January is particularly difficult, as its listening volunteers are consistently busy every day of the year, responding to a call for help every 10 seconds.
To help celebrate Brew Monday, Swindon & District Samaritans are hosting special awareness days at their shop, which is at 5/6 Curtis Street in Swindon on Monday 16 Jan. Then again on 19, 20 and 21 January as well, when people can drop in and pick up a mug and tea bag, for a small donation, and chat about the power of connecting over a cuppa and a catch up.
Swindon & District Samaritans Branch Director, Susie Higgs, said: “It’s simple, there is no such thing as Blue Monday. People can feel low at any point in the day, week or year and we want them to know that they are never alone.
“Forget Blue Monday and instead check in with people who you care about for a cuppa and a chat as talking really can save lives. Our volunteers are available around the clock to listen to anyone who needs support this Brew Monday and every other day of the month and year, 24/7.”
To help organise Brew Monday get togethers, Samaritans have provided useful resources, fundraising tips, and information, available at www.samaritans.org/support-us/campaign/brew-monday/
Anyone can contact Samaritans, free, any time from any phone on 116 123, or email jo@samaritans.org or visit www.samaritans.org
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