Did you know how Blue Monday started? 

The third Monday in January has become known as Blue Monday (the most depressing day of the year apparently), but did you know ‘Blue Monday’ is a myth and came about because of a publicity campaign?

It started in 2005 and was supposedly based on ‘calculations’ but this is now since been said to be pseudoscience.

Despite the dubious origins of Blue Monday, it has in recent years been adapted and used as an extra opportunity to talk about the importance of connection and what better way to do this than with a very British pastime… having a brew.

So… Blue Monday is now Brew Monday – a considerably more positive way to start the third Monday in January we think!

What can you do for #BrewMonday?

It’s all about connection so why not grab a cuppa and do something today to connect with others, nature, or an activity you enjoy?

Here is a short list of ideas for how you can use Brew Monday…

1. Make time for a cuppa, biscuit, and chat with your neighbour, a friend or family member
2. Get together with colleagues for social cuppa and catch-up (you can even organise to do this virtually if you’re working from different places)
3. Take some time for you and enjoy a cuppa outside in the fresh air (weather permitting) or with a book, magazine, or favourite TV programme
4. Arrange a cuppa and catch up with someone you’ve been worried about - an invitation for a cuppa alone can be a way of reminding someone that you care.
5. If you’re struggling, reach out to someone you trust and arrange a cuppa and catch up. Talk about how you’re feeling. A chat over a brew can help us feel a bit more grounded and put our worries into perspective.

Tips for building and strengthening a sense of connection

It isn't just about today. Here are some tips for building and strengthening a sense of connect throughout the year...

• Regularly check-in with friends and family – put reminders in your calendar to call or text someone or put a regular date in the diary to meet for coffee.
• Join a group – book clubs, sports teams or voluntary groups can be a great way to meet new people with similar interests.
• Be a good listener – actively listen, show interest in others and engage in meaningful conversations.
• Show appreciation – make sure you take time to let the people you value know you appreciate them. Simple acts can strengthen your connection.
• Plan or host a tea or coffee morning – a coffee morning can be a great way to encourage social interaction at work, school, with friends or in your community.
• Find appreciation in nature – go for a walk around the local park, plant and grow something, take photographs, visit a nature reserve, do some stargazing. 

If there’s someone you’re worried about but you’re not sure what signs to look for or are concerned about saying or doing the wrong thing, grab a cuppa and take one of our FREE online suicide awareness training courses.