A day regarded by many as the most depressing of the year is upon us - but a pair of Coventry cafes are doing their bit to lift peoples' spirits.
'Blue Monday' falls on the third Monday of each new year as people settle back into normal life after the Christmas and New Year period.
Failed new year resolutions, financial struggles after the excesses of the festive season and miserable weather were all reasons why Sky Travel first coined 'Blue Monday' back in a 2005 press release.
Fast forward to 2023 and this year's gloomiest day is Monday, January 16. However, visitors to Cafe in the Park at Coombe Abbey and the Park Bistro at War Memorial Park will have a reason to smile.
The popular Coventry venues, which are operated by No Ordinary Hospitality Management (NOHM), are offering free cuppas to customers throughout the day in support of the Samaritans 'Brew Monday'.
The charity believes that there is no such thing as Blue Monday, stating it is a myth and has rebranded the day to spread a positive message.
"Brew Monday is there to encourage everyone to reach out to people around them," said Rebecca Freeman, Head of Marketing from NOHM.
"There's always time for a cuppa and a catch up, and we're encouraging people to come along and see a friendly face, say hello and enjoy a free cup of tea at either Café in the Park at Coombe Abbey or The Park Bistro at War Memorial.
“No vouchers or codes are required. Visitors can simply place their order at the checkout and sit back with their free cup of tea, or take away and enjoy a walk round the park.”
Brew Monday events are being held across the country, supporting the Samartians and its life-saving work.
A Samartians spokesperson said: "The third Monday in January is sometimes referred to as ‘the most difficult day of the year’ but this is a myth. At Samaritans we know there’s no such thing as ‘Blue Monday’ – we all have our good days and our bad days, and those aren’t for the calendar to decide.
"So we say it's time to stop this myth about Monday being 'blue' and instead start a conversation over a brew! Reach out and connect with family, friends, colleagues and loved ones.
"We can always make time for a cuppa and a catch-up. It doesn’t matter if it’s a Monday morning or Saturday night, or if you’re drinking green tea, black coffee or orange juice. If you’re sharing a cuppa and listening, you’re doing it right."
Donations to support the Samaritans can be made online by visiting https://www.samaritans.org/donate-now
Terms and conditions apply. This offer only applies to tea and not coffee or other drinks.