Home Health Why ‘Brew’ Monday is better for our mental health

Why ‘Brew’ Monday is better for our mental health

9th January 2025

Every year we hear about Blue Monday, dubbed the ‘most depressing’ day of the year.

Falling on the third Monday of January, this day is said to bring a combination of sadness from things such as holiday blues, bad weather, poor financial situation after Christmas spending and failed New Year’s resolutions.

the very idea of Blue Monday trivialises depression

But digging a bit deeper into Blue Monday, it’s clear the concept began in 2004 when the travel company Sky Travel created a formula for what they called the January Blues.

However, the very idea of Blue Monday trivialises depression, which is clearly a chronic condition.

While it is true that most people suffer a lower mood in he winter period, thee is no real evidence linking Blue Monday to a peak in mental health problems or incidents.

Organisations such as Samaritans have advocated for greater support, understanding and awareness of mental health issues.

In response to the belief that Blue Monday concentrates too much on the negative aspects of life, Samaritans started Brew Monday.

The goal of Brew Monday is to simply get people to grab a cup of tea

They aim to rebrand the day as an opportunity to prioritise mental health and interact with others, rather than as a time of sadness or depression.

Helen Gilbert, Branch director of Liverpool and Merseyside Samaritans, said: “The goal of Brew Monday is to simply get people to grab a cup of tea and use it as an opportunity to talk to their loved ones.”

Samaritans’ work goes beyond just this one campaign. With their helpline and volunteer programs, the charity offers a crucial service to people experiencing emotional distress, 24 hours a day, 365 days a year.

However, Brew Monday shows that mental health support isn’t just about professional services – it’s about everybody looking out for one another.

Helen said: “A simple conversation can provide someone with the support they need to feel heard, valued, and less isolated.

“There is definitely still a stigma around mental health, and Samaritans.”

Liverpool Samaritans works in partnerships all across Merseyside, including organisations like prisons, fire and rescue services, HMP Liverpool, schools and hospitals.

Notably, Liverpool’s branch launched a partnership with Showmen’s Mental Health Awareness Charity.

Rachel Howley, Liverpool Samaritans Development Manager, said: “Showmen’s Mental Health are a charity founded and run by people from their own community. The aim is to break the stigma around mental health in their community,”

Here are some tips from the Samaritans if you’re struggling during these winter months:

Find a balance:

Try a relaxation exercise.
Set short-term goals.
Be kind to yourself.

Reach out

Spend time with loved ones when you feel able.
Talk about how you’re feeling.
You are never alone. – If you don’t have family or friends close by or don’t feel like there’s anyone you can talk to, Samaritans volunteers are here for you. Call free, day or night, on 116 123 or email [email protected]. More information can be found on our contact a Samaritan page.

Take time for yourself