With the Christmas festivities now over for another year, it is reported that millions of people across the UK are struggling with the widely recognised, ‘winter blues’.
The Mental Health Charity, Samaritans, recognises Monday 18th of January as one of the most difficult days of the year, with many people feeling alone with their problems. In order to raise spirits, Samaritans decided to change the day to “Brew Monday”.
To change this negative day into something positive, they encourage everyone to grab a brew and have a chat. A survey in 2021 found that at least 58% of UK adults found that speaking to someone regularly had a positive effect on their mental health.
Here at Crouched Friars residential care home, we recognise the importance of getting together to reduce loneliness and we take pride in providing engaging activities that encourage our residents to socialise and share experiences.
Let’s take a look at the ways you can get involved in “Brew Monday” and reduce loneliness…
Quick phone or video call
During the pandemic, meeting up in person has been more of a challenge. However, you don’t have to physically meet someone to make a difference. Giving an individual who’s struggling at least fifteen minutes of your day over the phone or video call can make a huge difference! Here at Crouched Friars, our residents have regular calls with family members and loved ones to stay connected, especially during the Pandemic. So, grab yourself a brew, reach out and connect with someone virtually.
Home visit
If you’d prefer a physical meeting, why not organise an hour of your day to pop over for a cup of tea after work to a lonely neighbour, grandparent or loved one. “Brew Monday” doesn’t have to be on a Monday, it can be any day of the week. At Crouched Friars, our residents have regular visits from family and friends to keep their spirits up. Over the next coming months, consider reaching out to someone to see how they are doing in these difficult times.
Fundraise
If you are a person who enjoys event planning, then why not get involved in a “Brew Monday” event this month! Crouched Friars enjoy taking part in fundraising events, such as the Macmillan coffee morning back in December. Plan your own get together with tea and biscuits, either in your local community or a larger fundraising event. Bake sale, tea and coffee mornings, virtual raffle or sponsored walks are only some of the ideas you could get involved in to make a difference.
We are big tea lovers at Crouched Friars and so every day is a brew day for us! We want to dedicate our time ensuring that none of our residents feel lonely, alongside providing them with quality care and support.
For more information on Crouched Friars, or to take a look around the home, please call 01206 572647 or visit our website at www.crouchedfriars.co.uk