Brew Monday: take a moment to check in
You might have heard of Blue Monday, often labelled “the most depressing day of the year”. In reality, it’s not a helpful idea and it has been challenged as part of a travel company’s marketing campaign.
That’s why the Brew Monday approach, championed by Samaritans, is such a welcome alternative. Winter can be a tough stretch for students: short days, cold weather, and assessments can leave anyone feeling tired, stressed, or disconnected. Brew Monday flips the script by encouraging us to slow down, connect, and look out for one another.
It’s a reminder that the smallest moments (a warm drink, a quick chat, a shared pause) can genuinely support our wellbeing, whether we’re struggling or simply navigating a busy time of year.
What Brew Monday can look like
There’s no one way to do Brew Monday. It’s about whatever feels supportive to you. That might be:
- Meeting a friend for a coffee or tea between lectures
- Taking five minutes to step outside and get some fresh air
- Messaging someone you haven’t spoken to in a while
- Joining a campus event or drop-in
- Checking in with someone who seems stressed, quiet, or overwhelmed
- Or simply slowing down long enough to notice how you’re feeling
Sometimes, it’s not the big gestures that help most – it’s the small, kind ones.
Talking really does help
One of the key messages behind Brew Monday is that connection matters. Reaching out to someone else can brighten their day, and talking about how you’re doing can lighten your load too. You don’t need to have a big conversation. Even saying, “How are you doing today?” or “I’ve been finding this week a bit much – fancy a quick break?” can create space for honesty and support.
And if you’d rather talk to someone outside your immediate circle, support is always available at UoB.
Support at UoB
Whether you’re having a tough time or just want someone to talk to, there are confidential options open to you:
Brew Monday isn’t about pretending everything’s fine and it’s not about forcing positivity either. It’s about giving yourself and others a little extra care during a busy and often challenging time of year.
So today, if you can, make space for a brew, a breath, or a bit of connection. You deserve it.