Brew Monday is an annual initiative by the Samaritans, happening on 15 January 2023, a suicide prevention charity in the United Kingdom, to encourage people to connect with others and have a cup of tea or coffee together. The third Monday of January is chosen for this event because it is often seen as a "Blue Monday," a day associated with feeling low or depressed. The idea behind Brew Monday is to combat these negative feelings by spreading kindness and sharing warmth and companionship.
The Samaritans encourage people to organise Brew Monday events with their friends, family, colleagues, or neighbours. This can be done at home, in a café, or even in a public place. The important thing is to come together to socialise, connect, and offer support to one another. The Samaritans also provide resources and tips for organising and hosting Brew Monday events, such as templates for invitations, social media posts, and conversation starters.
Brew Monday is a simple but powerful way to make a difference in the lives of others. By coming together to share a cup of tea or coffee, we can create a sense of community, reduce isolation, and offer support to those who may be struggling. The Samaritans hope that Brew Monday will help to prevent suicide and promote mental health awareness.
Here are some of the benefits of Brew Monday:
- It can help to reduce loneliness and isolation. Social connections are important for our mental health, and Brew Monday provides an opportunity to connect with others and feel supported.
- It can raise awareness of suicide prevention. The Samaritans use Brew Monday as an opportunity to share information about suicide prevention and encourage people to reach out for help if they need it.
- It can promote mental health awareness. Brew Monday can help to break down the stigma associated with mental health problems and encourage people to talk openly about their struggles.
If you are interested in organizing a Brew Monday event, the Samaritans provide step-by-step instructions on their website. You can also find links to their social media pages to share your event with others and spread the word about Brew Monday.
Together, we can make a difference in the lives of others by spreading kindness and supporting one another. Brew Monday is a small but meaningful way to do just that.