The third Monday is January – often dubbed “Blue Monday” – is reputedly the most depressing day of the year, as the glow of Christmas holidays finally recedes, the weather worsens and New Year’s resolutions crumble and fail.
But Bath & District Samaritans are calling on people to defy the doom-mongers by making this year’s gloomy date, Monday 16th January, into a more positive “Brew Monday”, using the occasion as an excuse to brew up a simple cuppa and share a chat with a friend, colleague, neighbour or family member.
Samaritans volunteers will be on hand at many railway stations across the country, including Bath Spa, on Monday morning (January 16th), brewing up a treat for commuters by handing out specially produced Samaritans tea bags to encourage them to brew up and a chat.
It’s being done with support from Network Rail and the wider rail industry, which helps Samaritans raise awareness of the charity’s services, and recruit volunteers.
David Ryder, Director of Bath & District Samaritans said: “Difficult feelings don’t really work to a calendar, and external circumstances are only one part of what can makes life sometimes feel overwhelming.
“But January probably isn’t the jolliest month, so making time for a friendly chat will help everyone, and we know can make a real difference to people with troubles, helping turn them away from darker thoughts. Everyone can help – it can be as simple as making a cup of tea.”
The Samaritans stand and tea-bags will be in place in the main ticket hall at Bath Spa station from 8.00am-10.00am.
