Why Blue Monday is a Myth and How Brew Monday Can Brighten Your Week.
As we kick off the new year amid the January chill, you’ve probably heard whispers (or seen memes) about Blue Monday – that infamous third Monday in January supposedly dubbed the most depressing day of the year. But let’s set the record straight: it’s time to debunk this so-called downer and flip it into something positive with Brew Monday. And guess what? We’re ramping things up with an extra “Fancy a Cuppa?” event next Monday to help you connect, chat, and chase away any winter woes. Read on to find out why Blue Monday is bogus and how a simple cuppa can make all the difference.
The Fallacy of Blue Monday: It’s All Hype, No Science
Blue Monday isn’t an ancient tradition or a proven fact – it was actually created by a UK travel company back in 2005 as part of a marketing campaign. They hired a psychologist to come up with a “formula” that supposedly calculated the gloomiest day based on factors like bad weather, post-Christmas debt, failed New Year’s resolutions, and low motivation. The result? The third Monday in January got slapped with the label, encouraging people to book holidays to escape the “blues.”
Sounds relatable, right? But here’s the truth: there’s no scientific evidence to back it up. Mental health experts and organizations widely agree it’s pseudoscience. Feeling low doesn’t stick to a calendar, and labeling one specific Monday as “the worst” can actually make people feel worse unnecessarily. Plus, studies show no real spike in mood dips or mental health referrals in January – it’s more myth than reality.
As students, you know January can be tough – deadlines looming, dark evenings, and that post-holiday slump. But buying into Blue Monday? Nah, you’re smarter than that. Instead, let’s focus on what actually helps: connection and community.
Enter Brew Monday: Out with the Blue, In with the Brew
That’s where Brew Monday comes in – a brilliant initiative from Samaritans, the UK’s leading suicide prevention charity. Instead of dwelling on the “blues,” they encourage everyone to brew up a cuppa (tea, coffee, hot chocolate – whatever you fancy) and have a proper catch-up with friends, family, or even classmates. The idea? A simple chat over a drink can make a world of difference to someone’s day, reminding us that we’re not alone.
Brew Monday flips the script on January’s third Monday (that’s 19th January this year) by promoting real, meaningful conversations. Samaritans know that low moods don’t follow a calendar, so their message is timeless: reach out, listen, and support each other. It’s all about building those small moments of connection that boost mental wellbeing – something we could all use more of during uni life, whether you’re battling essay stress or just missing home.
Join Us for an Extra Fancy a Cuppa: Your Brew Monday Boost
To celebrate Brew Monday and keep the positive vibes flowing, we’re hosting an additional “Fancy a Cuppa?” event next Monday, 19th January 19th, from 1pm to 2pm in firstpoint at the Peirson Study and Guidance Centre on St John’s Campus. If you’re already a fan of our regular Tuesday and Thursday sessions, you’ll love this bonus one – it’s the perfect way to embrace the Brew Monday spirit right here at UW.
For those new to it, “Fancy a Cuppa?” is our chilled-out drop-in event designed to help you unwind, make friends, and feel supported. Swing by for free hot drinks and biscuits, chat with our friendly Student Wellbeing Champions and staff, or dive into fun activities like puzzles and colouring. No booking needed – just show up, grab a cuppa, and join the conversation. It’s open to all students, no matter your course or year, and it’s a great spot to de-stress, share laughs, or even vent about that group project gone wrong. In a busy uni world, these events are all about fostering community and looking out for each other’s mental health – because sometimes, a quick chat is all it takes to turn your day around.
Why Bother? Because Connection Counts
As Worcester students, you’re a resilient bunch, but we all have those moments when life feels overwhelming. Brew Monday and “Fancy a Cuppa?” remind us that reaching out isn’t a sign of weakness – it’s a strength. Whether you’re feeling the January drag or just fancy a free brew, come along and let’s build those connections together.
See you next Monday – let’s make it a Brew-tiful one! ☕
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