T he Samaritans bust ‘ Blue Monday’ myths
ON a cold winter’s morning, the Samaritans were at hand to pour the tea and dispel some moody myths at Glasgow Central Station yesterday.
The third Monday in January has, in recent years, come to be known as Blue Monday leaving many believing the claims that this one day of the year is the most ‘ depressing’ or ‘ difficult’ to tackle thanks to a post- Christmas slump.
To debunk the theory, team members from the suicide prevention charity gathered in the heart of the city centre to lend an ear and remind passers- by that their volunteers are always available to talk.
Danielle Rowley, influencing manager at Samaritans Scotland, said: “It’s been a great morning so far. We’ve had a lot of people who have heard of Blue Monday before and have stopped for a cup of tea and a chat about it.
“The whole point is to turn the concept on its head and say ‘ well, how about we try Brew Monday instead?’
“We’ve been handing out teabags and encouraging people to take them home to share with someone while having a chat.
“People can find themselves struggling on any day of the year, not just a random date that’s been picked out on a calendar, and if they are then we want them to know that we’re always here to talk day and night.”
A constant crowd remained in place below Central Station’s iconic clock as the hours passed by with even the busiest of commuters stopping by to say hello to the team.
Alongside warming complimentary cups of tea and coffee, members of the public were also offered cans of Irn- Bru or sweet treats which had been donated by AG Barr and Lees of Scotland.
Among those handing out goodies was John Casey who has worked with the Samaritans for more than 12 years and further explained the importance of the campaign.
He said: “The work that the
Samaritans does isn’t all about taking calls from people who are experiencing suicidal thoughts.
“We’re really trying to get out into the public more so that we’re visible and people understand that we’re here to listen, without any judgement, about feelings they’re experiencing in all manner of situations which could include grieving a loved one or even going through a break- up.
“Our annual Brew Monday event is the ideal chance to do that and it’s really rewarding to have members of the public come up to you to tell you that the Samaritans have a special place in their hearts.
“It gives people that wee mental nudge to remind you to slow down, be kind to yourself and speak to others when you’re struggling.”