Blue Monday and Brew Monday: Looking After Yourself This January

The third Monday in January, (falls on 19^th January this year) is often called Blue Monday.

It is known as a time when people may feel low due to dark days, cold weather, tiredness, and financial pressure after Christmas.

In recent years, The Samaritans have chosen a more positive approach and now refer to this day as Brew Monday. The message is simple: take a pause, make a hot drink, and connect with someone.

At Carron PA Support, we understand that January can still be difficult, especially for Deaf people who may already face barriers to communication, access, and support. Whether you connect more with Blue Monday or Brew Monday, this is a good opportunity to focus on your wellbeing.

January and Mental Wellbeing for Deaf People

Deaf people may experience additional challenges, including:

• Feeling isolated or left out

• Limited access to information or services

• Appointments without interpreters

• Fatigue from lipreading or adapting to hearing environments

• Feeling pressure to cope alone

These challenges can feel heavier during the winter months.

Simple Self-Help Tips

Here are some gentle ideas that may help:

Take a daily pause

Even a short break with a warm drink, soft lighting, or calming music can help your body and mind slow down.

Connect in ways that work for you

This might be messaging a friend, joining an online Deaf group, or having a video call. Connection does not have to be in person.

Limit overload

Too much news or social media can be draining. It is okay to switch off notifications or take a break from screens.

Respect your energy levels

Winter can be tiring. Rest is important and does not need to be earned.

Express your thoughts

You may find it helpful to write, sign your thoughts privately, or record a short video journal.

Keep a simple routine

Eating regularly, getting dressed, and going outside briefly for fresh air can help support your mood.

Support Information

Although Samaritans do not offer a direct British Sign Language (BSL) service.Deaf or hard-of-hearing people can contact Samaritans using theNext Generation Text (NGT) service on 0330 094 5717.

For Deaf people who need mental health support in BSL, SignHealth, the Deaf health charity, provides services that understand Deaf culture and communication needs.

If you are in immediate danger, please contact emergency services.

A Gentle Reminder

You do not have to push through January. You do not have to be strong all the time.Looking after yourself comes first.

Whether you think of this day as Blue Monday or Brew Monday, let it be a reminder to slow down, reach out in ways that feel safe, and prioritise your wellbeing.

At Carron PA Support, we believe support should be accessible, respectful, and centred on you.