This year Brew Monday is on 16th January. The third Monday of January is commonly known as the most depressing day of the year, Blue Monday.
The Samaritans introduced their campaign of Brew Monday to counter the January Blues, reminding everyone to reach out for a cuppa and a catch-up with the people you care about.
Is there any truth behind Blue Monday?
After the excitement and joy of the festivities of Christmas and New Year, it seems inevitable for a lot of us to fall into the January Blues. This is how Blue Monday was formed. The term was first used in 2005 by a UK Travel Company who named it the most depressing day of the year because of money struggles, bad weather, failed new years resolutions, and just general low mood.
However, a lecturer in psychology, Dr Philip Clark, says that Blue Monday isn’t scientific, but it does help to start conversation around mental health and wellbeing:
“The key thing to remember is that Blue Monday isn’t scientifically proven – there’s not even proof January sees a rise in mental health referrals although it may seem that way.
“But Blue Monday is getting people having those difficult conversations about depression and anxiety and what you can actually do to help with that.
“I think that’s a really strong benefit that comes with it.”
As Dr Philip Clark highlights, Blue Monday starts conversation and discussion around mental health, which is always important.
The Samaritans also reinforce the idea that Blue Monday is simply a myth, and we all have good and bad days no matter what day of the calendar they fall on.
Why we’re choosing Brew Monday over Blue Monday
At Active Care Group, we care about the mental health of our residents and staff.
We hope that Brew Monday encourages everyone to reach out to their friends and family, whether it’s a Monday morning or a Saturday evening. Even if you cannot get together in person, video call is still a great option. Sometimes just seeing a familiar face is all it takes to lift our spirits.
Changing the narrative from Blue Monday to Brew Monday is beneficial to building connection. It is also a great way to start off a positive outlook for the New Year.
‘We can always make time for a cuppa and a catch-up.’
Find out more about how you can get involved with Brew Monday 2023 on the Samaritans website https://www.samaritans.org/support-us/campaign/brew-monday/
