Brew up to forget the January blues

But Samaritans are taking a more positive approach. They’ve renamed it Brew Monday and their advice is to ignore all the doom and gloom and take time out for a cuppa and chat with family, friends of colleagues.

You could also do something practical for someone who’s struggling – let them know the charity’s free helpline (116 123) is available 24/7.

Volunteers from the Luton, South Beds and Harpenden branch will be at The Mall on Monday between 11am and 4pm brewing up a treat for commuters and shoppers. They’ll be handing out specially-produced Samaritans tea bags with support from Network Rail and the wider rail industry.

Director Ian Franks said: “Difficult feelings don’t work to a calendar and external circumstances are only one part of what can make life feel overwhelming

“We’ll be ready to listen to whatever you need to talk about – health, family, work, relationships, money issues or feelings of loneliness, isolation and uncertainty.”

He added: “If you want to make an even bigger difference, why not think about giving some time or money to help keep our life-saving servcies going?”

> Visit the branch at 33 Cardiff Road or call 01582 720666.