Julie Walters and other famous faces dispel Blue Monday myth in Samaritans ad
Suicide prevention charity Samaritans has teamed up with a whole host of familiar faces including Julie Walters, Stevie Basaula, Keith Lemon and James Acaster for its latest campaign titled ‘Brew Monday.’
Julie Walters fronts Samaritans Brew Monday ad
The initiative aims to dispel the myth that ‘Blue Monday’ is the most difficult day of the year, noting that feeling low can happen at any time and it’s important that people feel comfortable to communicate what they are going through.
In the video, viewers see the celebs encourage people to have a cuppa and a chat with someone they care about.
Thank you to the brew-illiant @NorburyJames for this #BrewMonday illustration
Who will you be sharing a cuppa with today? ☕ pic.twitter.com/RDPrjeRbr9
— Samaritans (@samaritans) January 17, 2022
“People go through a range of emotions throughout the year so the idea of feeling blue on one day is a load of rubbish. I’ve had my fair share of blue days and have found solace in speaking to loved ones over a cuppa,” said Walters.
“It is a simple action that can go a long way, particularly now when so many people continue to feel isolated and lonely. It doesn’t have to be Monday, or a cuppa – connecting with someone at any time during the year shows them you are there and ready to listen.”
With the dark mornings and frosty evenings, winter can be a difficult time for many people, but Samaritans notes that its volunteers hear similar concerns all year round from those that contact the charity regarding mental health, illness, family and loneliness.
To support the campaign, designs from Britain’s Got Talent contestant and food artist Nathan Wyburn, former Samaritans volunteer, illustrator and author James Norbury, and contemporary wellbeing artist Emelie Hryhoruk will be shown on digital screens across Network Rail stations to inspire passengers from January 17.
“Having struggled with intrusive thoughts for years, I’ve felt the pain and sadness that many callers experience,” added Norbury.
“Talking can help you feel less alone and bring the problems sitting at the back of your head in the shadowy darkness into the light. Things can often feel much more tangible, rather than a confusing awful mess. Talking about how you feel is a great tonic.”
