Brewing up a mitzvah – interfaith initiative to beat January blues

Leaders from Jewish and other faith organisations have raised a warm mug to ‘Brew Monday’ – encouraging people to reach out to others during a notoriously difficult time of year.

Taking place each year on the third Monday of January as an alternative to what is  traditionally known as ‘Blue Monday’, it has become a day to spread warmth, give emotional support and reduce the stigma surrounding mental health.

Organised by faith-led, social action initiative Mitzvah Day, and inspired by the Samaritans campaign of the same name, ‘Brew Monday’ urges people to have a brew and check in with a friend, family member, neighbour or colleague, whether in person or virtually.

Mitzvah Day CEO Stuart Diamond said: “At a time when many of us are at our lowest – with a cost living crisis, grey skies above and end of year festivities now a distant memory – Mitzvah Day is supporting the Samaritans’ Brew Monday and bringing it to our faith communities.”

He hopes that by checking in and sharing a drink with a friend or neighbour, “we can all help to build a more connected and caring world.”

Organisations taking part in Mitzvah Day’s Brew Monday included Board of Deputies, Liberal Judaism, Lincoln University Chaplaincy, Maccabi GB, Nisa-Nashim, Reform Judaism, Streetwise, UJS and Unitas Youth Zone.

Sara Radivan, Regional Manager of the Board of Deputies, added: “A meeting with a cup of tea or coffee also makes us chat about our daily life and health which …..really can make a big difference.”