The Isle of Man Samaritans is urging residents to “pop the kettle on” and engage in meaningful conversations as part of its annual Brew Monday campaign. Scheduled for January 19, this initiative aims to counter the notion of “Blue Monday,” often labeled as the most depressing day of the year. Instead, the charity emphasizes the significance of human connection and open discussions about feelings, particularly during a month that can pose challenges for many.
According to new research commissioned by Samaritans, nearly one in five individuals never discusses their emotions, while another 20% only do so once a month. These findings underscore the prevalence of emotional isolation and highlight the importance of fostering open dialogue among friends, family, and colleagues.
Deana Douglas, the branch director for Isle of Man Samaritans, emphasized the transformative power of being heard. “We answer a call every 10 seconds and know firsthand how a conversation where someone shares how they feel can be life-changing,” she stated. “Brew Monday is an opportunity for everyone to check in with those we care about.”
She encouraged individuals to make time for conversations with those they may be worried about. “It might seem simple to some or impossible to others, but we know the difference it can make to someone who is struggling,” Douglas added. “So, let’s pop on those kettles, break out those bourbons, and turn small talk into big talk. It might just save someone’s life.”
Community Engagement and Support
As part of the Brew Monday campaign, volunteers from Isle of Man Samaritans will be available at Tesco on Victoria Road in Douglas from 12:00 to 18:00. They will engage with the public, answer questions about the charity’s work, and provide information on accessing support.
The charity is also encouraging local businesses to participate in Brew Monday by promoting conversations in the workplace. Aimee Grainger, another branch director, noted that January can be particularly tough for employees, and small gestures can have a substantial impact. “We would also like to encourage businesses to support Brew Monday and get behind it to help any of their employees who may find January a difficult month,” Grainger commented. “If we can spread the word about Brew Monday, it might just help someone in need.”
Resources for Support and Connection
Samaritans has created a variety of resources to assist individuals in organizing Brew Monday gatherings, including fundraising ideas and conversation starters. These materials can be found on the charity’s website.
For those seeking support, Samaritans offers a free, confidential helpline available at any time by calling 116 123. Individuals can also reach out via email at [email protected], with further information accessible on the charity’s official website. To locate additional local organizations that provide advice and support, residents can visit www.gov.im/wellbeingsupport.
The Brew Monday campaign serves not just as a reminder of the importance of conversation but also as a call to action for communities to connect and support one another during challenging times.
