Day: January 11, 2017

January gets some bad press, home as it is to huge credit card bills, failed fitness programmes, broken New Year’s resolutions, cold weather and what’s known as ‘Blue Monday’, the day that has been dubbed the most depressing day of the year, which falls on Monday, January 16 this year.

However, Brighton, Hove & District Samaritans are saying forget Blue Monday – ignore the hype and trivialisation of mental health issues and celebrate Brew Monday instead. Take time out for a simple cuppa and a chat with a friend, colleague or family member and do something practical for someone who may be struggling, let them know Samaritans’ free to call helpline is available every day of the year.

Volunteers from the branch will be on hand at Brighton Station on Monday, January 16 brewing up a treat for commuters, handing out specially produced Samaritans tea bags, with support from Network Rail and the wider rail industry, which helps Samaritans raise awareness of its services and recruit volunteers.

Daniel Cheesman, Director of Brighton, Hove & District Samaritans, said: “Difficult feelings don’t work to a calendar and external circumstances are only one part of what can makes life feel overwhelming. Forget Blue Monday and instead join us for Brew Monday at Brighton Station. We’ll have plenty of people, ready to listen to whatever you need to talk about.”

He adds; “Health, family, work, relationships and money issues, or feelings of loneliness, isolation or uncertainty could be making life really tough. Samaritan’s ‘Brew Monday’ also gives you an excuse to sit down with a friend and talk to them or listen to them over a cup of tea.  If you want to make an even bigger difference in 2017, why not think about giving some money or some time to Samaritans to help keep our life-saving services going.”

You don’t have to go to a special Samaritans event to get involved in Brew Monday. Everyone across the country is encouraged to have a brew with someone important to them: a work colleague, a family member, neighbour or friend. And when you’ve had your brew, why not donate to Samaritans so that its trained listening volunteers can continue to be there for people whenever they need them.

You can call Samaritans for free anytime from any phone on 116 123

To email Samaritans, click here:

To view the Samaritans website, click here:

Or call Brighton, Hove and District Samaritans on 01273 772277.

Samaritans respond to more than 5.4 million calls for help every year. To answer just one call costs them £4.26.

To make a donation, click here: