Shutterstock / Antonio Guillem©The third Monday in January has long been dubbed “Blue Monday” — a gloomy title it gets thanks to the post-Christmas blues; cold, dark nights; and long wait until payday.
But mental health charities like the Samaritans are pushing back against this definition, and the idea that a day can be inherently gloomy at all.
For them, it’s important to note that everyone has their good days and their bad days.
So this year again they’re encouraging us all to enjoy “Brew Monday” instead, by having a cup of tea and a catch-up with a friend.
Of course, the country is still in the throes of the coronavirus pandemic. So our cups of tea may have to be virtual. Or even outdoors!
But that’s a small price to pay for time spent with loved ones.
With Zoom, WhatsApp, Facebook Messenger, Skype and other platforms, we’re spoiled for choice when it comes to ways of connecting online.
But you might just make do with an old-fashioned phone call!
And you don’t have to do it today, or even on a Monday at all. Just reach out and chat with a friend, family member or colleague any time you feel like it.
For more on “Brew Monday”, click here.
More mental health tips from “The People’s Friend”
We’re living through trying times, and maintaining good mental health has never seemed more important.
If you’re looking for some hints and tips on doing just that, we’ve got you covered:
- Click here for some techniques for keeping calm
- Learn more about safeguarding your emotional wellbeing
- This advice will help you combat stress
- Click here to read an expert’s opinion on dealing with grief
A little friendship goes a long way
Regular “Friend” readers and website fans will know that our story podcast, “Reading Between The Lines”, is sponsored by friendship society the Oddfellows.
The Oddfellows have made it their mission to combat loneliness, and they have plenty of useful information and advice on their website to help do just that.
Iain McDonald I am the Digital Content Editor at the “Friend”, making me responsible for managing the flow of interesting and entertaining content on the magazine’s website and social media channels.
