'Blue Monday' is a myth – but here's how we can help each other through dark times every day of the year
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So-called “Blue Monday” may be fast approaching but Inverness 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, Inverness Samaritans is turning the day on its head and into something meaningful by running ‘Brew Monday’.
The idea is to encourage friends and family to stay connected with each other by having a cuppa and a catch-up.
To help celebrate and raise awareness of the initiative Inverness Samaritans is joining forces with local rail industry partners Scotrail and Network Rail to host an event at Inverness railway station on Monday from 8am.
Over the course of the morning charity volunteers and rail staff will be handing out free tea bags to commuters and chatting to them about the power of connecting with others over a simple cuppa that gives the chance for a potentially important catch up.
Inverness Samaritans branch director Janet Guthrie 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.”
And they added: “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 a range of useful resources, fundraising tips, and information which are all available online at www.samaritans.org/support-us/campaign/brew-monday/
Anyone can contact Samaritans, free at any time they feel in need of help or support.
From any phone simply dial 116 123. You can also email jo@samaritans.org or visit www.samaritans.org
