The third Monday in January has been named Blue Monday, quite possibly the gloomiest day of the year for some.
In truth, any day of the year can catch us off guard but January, with the cold weather and dark mornings, post-Christmas debt, and already failed New Year’s resolutions can result in low motivation and a dip in mood.
Brew Monday is an initiative that is supported by The Samaritans to help counteract the Blues, with the simple idea that a cup of tea can bring people together on January 15th.
Reaching out with a cuppa can be an effective way of starting a conversation with someone who may be lonely, depressed or in crisis. The message is that it’s always a good time to talk, to listen, and to connect with others.
We all have our good days and bad days, but if the bad days creep in more often than the good, then seek help, pick up the phone or send a text, call a friend, a helpline or your GP, and don’t be frightened to ask for help.
Take one day at a time and remember, things can and will improve.
When someone is carrying around worries and difficult feelings, it can be very lonely. So here are just some suggestions to support someone who you believe may be in need of help.
Have a Cuppa -
- Choose a good time, and somewhere without distractions.
- Put away your telephone and focus completely on the other person.
- Ask how things are.
- Listen - having someone who listens can help you feel less alone and isolated.
- Don’t be critical or judgemental.
- Pauses are fine, try not to jump in to fill a silence.
- Say back what you think it is they are wanting you to hear.
- Resist putting your own interpretation on it.
- Don’t give up. Sometimes it can take a few tries!
- Be Open. Support the person to get help and let them speak about how they are feeling.
When you say goodbye, promise to keep in touch and do keep in touch. A text or email to let them know you’re thinking of them can make a huge difference.
And of course, remember; “Keep a balance and take care of yourself. Your own mental health is important too. So this Monday please take a few moments out to have a cuppa with a friend or work colleague and also to find somewhere peaceful and quiet to consider and contemplate my own thoughts and feelings."
Although Blue/ Brew Monday is a great tool to remind of us of the importance of mental health and checking in with our friends, it is vital to remember that people can be suffering year-round.