Brew Monday flatlay - a tea pot made from a Grimm' rainbow

What is the meaning behind Brew Monday?

Brew Monday 2024 is held on 15th January, an awareness day by Samaritans encouraging people to grab a brew and have a catch up with the people important to them.

After the hustle and bustle leading up to Christmas, January can feel a quiet and sometimes lonely month. Add in the often difficult winter weather and long dark nights many of us don't feel at our best. Connecting with the people we care about can really help alleviate these feelings.

A cup of tea and heart-shaped chocolate biscuits on a heart decorated plate.

A positive spin on Blue Monday

The third Monday in January is often referred to as Blue Monday, thought to be the most depressing day of the year. This is a myth of course, as one Monday in January is no different from another! We all have good days and bad and it's not tied to a calendar date. Blue Monday was originally coined for marketing holidays, tempting us with warm sunny beaches and exotic locations.

Samaritans are encouraging us all to connect with others on this day instead and lend a listening ear. Let's banish the terms January Blues and Blue Monday. We can take the day back by sharing a cuppa with a friend, family member or a work colleague.

Two people enjoying a cup of tea together at a wooden table on Brew Monday

Brew Monday ideas

By meeting up either in person or virtually, and connecting with others over a warming brew, regular company and conversation goes a long way in cheering us up. It helps us feel better and manage the ups and downs of life.

Let’s make time for a panad (cup of tea) and a catch-up, and reach out to our friends, family or colleagues who may be feeling a little low. This could be a simple phone call or message, or physically meeting up for a coffee. Getting the chance to chat about things that are worrying us can be an instant mood boost. Being a good listener is just as important. Try not to offer advice or solve peoples problems if someone is sharing how they're feeling.

You may want to arrange your own Brew Monday event with tea and cakes to raise money for Samaritans. This helps support their important work helping people in difficult times having someone they can turn to to talk. Don't feel tied to the date of Brew Monday, choose a day that works best for you and your friends.

If you’d like to donate in support of this cause, you can donate online. Just £5 can fund the cost of a life-saving call.

https://www.samaritans.org/donate-now/