Today it's Brew Monday!
On Brew Monday, 15 January, Samaritans is reminding everyone to reach out for a cuppa and a catch-up with the people you care about.
The third Monday in January is often referred to as ‘the most difficult day of the year’ and some call it ‘Blue Monday’. But it is a myth and it's dangerous because it may discourage people from seeking the help that they need.
Struggles with winter weather, the post-Christmas slump and the cost-of-living pressures are just some of the stresses people may have right now - plus everyone has good or bad days, we don't store them up for a specific calendar date.
That's why the Samaritans relabelled today Brew Monday and is reminding everyone to reach out for a cuppa and a catch-up with family, friends, colleagues and loved ones (even if it’s done virtually).
How to be a good listener
Listening is a vital skill, and one that the volunteers from the Samaritans' have plenty of experience in.
Once someone starts to share how they’re feeling, it’s important to listen. We often try to give advice, or identify with someone by sharing our own experience or helping solve their problems, but that isn't always what someone wants. Sometimes we just need to listen, and let the other person tell us how they feel.
For more suggestions about how to be a good listener, take a look at the following resources from the Samaritans:
Mental health support
- LBG’s Employee Assistance Programme (Validium): 0800 9700 100
- TSB's Employee Assistance Programme: 0800 0856 348
- Mind mental health charity: https://www.mind.org.uk/
- Bank Workers Charity: 0800 0234 834 — https://www.bwcharity.org.uk/
- Samaritans: 116 123 — https://www.samaritans.org/
- NHS 'Every mind matters': https://www.nhs.uk/oneyou/every-mind-matters/
And remember, if you’re an Accord member and need a chat about support at work, call the helpline on 0118 934 1808.
All of our team of advisors have been accredited in Mental Health First Aid by MHFA England.
