South Devon Samaritans out to tackle 'Blue Monday'

Samaritans of South Devon is reminding the public of the power of human connection ahead of what is frequently known as ‘Blue Monday’ today (January 20). 

Samaritans has long campaigned to dispel the myth of the ‘most depressing day of the year’ and instead runs its annual Brew Monday campaign which encourages friends and family to stay connected by having a cuppa and a catch-up.

Samaritans of South Devon Branch Director, Robert Langdon, said: “There’s no right or wrong way to check in on those you care about – it doesn’t matter if it’s over the phone, in person, with tea or without – the important thing is to check in and connect with those you care about. We know first hand what a difference those moments of human connection can make to those who are struggling.”

To help raise awareness of Brew Monday, Samaritans of South Devon are greeting commuters at Newton Abbot Train station today (January 20) between 7am and 4pm. Volunteers from the branch will be handing out tea bags and chatting to passengers about how a simple catch up can make a huge difference to our emotional wellbeing. 

For those interested in organising their own Brew Monday event, Samaritans has a wealth of resources available at www.samaritans.org/support-us/campaign/brew-monday/ 

Anyone can contact Samaritans, free, any time from any phone on 116 123, or email jo@samaritans.org or visit www.samaritans.org