Since 2004, the third Monday in January has been known as Blue Monday, apparently the most depressing day of the year.
However, in recent years the term Brew Monday has been coined by the Samaritans with great success, and one housebuilder is asking its on-site colleagues to embrace the day, by sending biscuits to enjoy with their cuppas whilst taking five!
Miller Homes Teesside, which actively supports its construction team with positive mental health and wellbeing, is encouraging their site teams to down tools, have a brew and a biscuit together and just check in on one another.
Nick McCluskey, Production Director, Miller Homes Teesside said; “It doesn’t take long but it’s a heartfelt sentiment; asking if someone is OK, showing an interest in how they feel and taking time to listen can really make a difference to their mental wellbeing.
“Sadly, the construction sector is one of the industries most affected by poor mental health and we are working hard to change this and support our teams in a variety of ways.”
Another initiative by Miller Homes is the promotion of, and engagement with, Andy’s Man Club and signposting to other mental health charities that can offer support.
Nick added; “We all know how powerful having a chat can be and this is why we are encouraging Brew Monday with all our colleagues working on our sites across the region.”
In addition, events are organised throughout the year for colleagues and site teams, giving them time to check in on one another, learn how to manage mental health challenges, and better understand how to access support should it be needed
For further information about Brew Monday visit
https://www.samaritans.org/support-us/campaign/brew-monday/