We don’t need much of an excuse to stick the kettle on here at MVF, so today we’re going to be enjoying Brew Monday rather than Blue Monday. Brew Monday is a campaign started by the mental health charity Samaritans to encourage people to take a break and have a cup of tea with friends or family, in order to support each other during the difficult period after Christmas and New Year.
Photo by Rumman Amin on Unsplash
The campaign is held on the third Monday of January, which is often referred to as “Blue Monday,” as it is believed to be the most depressing day of the year, a fact which is fairly universally derided by scientists who say that it’s just a load of PR nonsense. The idea is that you can celebrate Brew Monday by organising a tea party, where you invite friends and family over to your home or meet in a local café or community center, to have a cup of tea and chat together. You can also use the opportunity to raise awareness of mental health issues and encourage people to reach out for help if they need it.
Friends play a crucial role in our mental health support system, and their presence and support can have a significant impact on us. We’ve often seen through MAN v FAT Football that one of the key changes that happens when guys join is that they realise that they aren’t alone in feeling bad about their weight and, even better, that there are other blokes who they can share the frustration with.
Having friends with whom we can share our thoughts and feelings can provide us with a sense of belonging and acceptance. They can act as a sounding board for our worries and concerns and offer a different perspective on problems that we might be facing. This can help to alleviate stress and anxiety, and provide a sense of comfort and security.
Additionally, friends can also provide us with a sense of accountability and motivation. They can encourage us to take care of ourselves, both physically and mentally, by engaging in activities such as exercise, meditation, or seeking help from a professional. They can also remind us to take time for ourselves, and to prioritise our mental health.
Perhaps the most important element is that friendship groups give us a network of people who we can rely on in times of crisis. Whether it’s a difficult breakup, a loss in the family, or a major life transition, friends can provide emotional support and practical assistance. They can be there to listen to us, to offer words of encouragement, and to be a shoulder to cry on. They can also help us to make connections with other people and resources that can aid in our recovery.
Furthermore, friends can also play an important role in preventing mental health issues from escalating. They can help to identify the early warning signs of depression, anxiety, or stress, and encourage us to seek help. They can also provide us with a sense of hope and optimism, which is essential for maintaining good mental health.
However, it’s important to note that friendships are a two-way street and it’s important to also be a good friend to others. Being a good listener, offering support and being there for your friends can go a long way in helping them and yourself as well.
So if you’re wondering what to do today, why not stick the kettle on, make a brew and have a natter with a mate? Just go easy on the chocolate digestives…
