York Samaritans dismantle ‘Blue Monday’ once and for all
While people are contending with winter weather, the post-Christmas slump, and the cost-of-living pressures York Samaritans is keen to reinforce that there’s no such thing as the saddest day of the year, aka ‘Blue Monday’.
The suicide prevention charity has long campaigned to dispel the Blue Monday myth as it could discourage people from seeking life-changing help.
Instead, York Samaritans is turning the day into something positive by running Brew Monday, encouraging 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, based on Nunnery Lane, is joining forces with local rail industry partners Network Rail to host an event at York railway station on 15th January from 9am - 6pm. Volunteers from York Samaritans will be handing out tea bags and chatting to passengers about the power of connecting.
At Samaritans, we’re consistently busy responding to a call for help every 10 seconds, every hour of every day of the year. We know that people find life difficult at all times of the year, not just one day in January. And when they do, it’s important that they reach out for support. Blue Monday sounds very negative, instead we’re celebrating Brew Monday and encouraging friends and family to check in with one another over a cuppa. Even small moments of human connection like this can play a big role in helping people who are currently struggling.
David Moyles, branch Director
Anyone can contact Samaritans, free, any time from any phone on 116 123, email [email protected] or visit www.samaritans.org to find out more.
Last year the volunteers from York Samaritans spent over 5000 hours supporting the public. With over 130 volunteers, the branch has been providing emotional support for the people of York for the past 56 years.
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/