York Samaritans – Samaritans Aiming to Bust the ‘Blue Monday’ Myth
So-called ‘Blue Monday’ may be fast approaching but York Samaritans believe that there’s no such thing as the saddest day of the year.
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.
Instead, Samaritans are turning the day on its head and into something meaningful by running ‘Brew Monday’, which encourages friends and family to stay connected by having a cuppa and a catch-up.
To help celebrate and raise awareness of Brew Monday, York Samaritans are joining forces with local rail industry partners to host an event at York station on Monday 16th January between 9 am and 6 pm. Volunteers will be handing out tea bags and chatting to passengers about the power of connecting over a cuppa and a catch-up.
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 on the telephone via 116 123 or email at [email protected]
Diana Gibbon, branch Director
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/