Today is Blue Monday, a day often referred to as ‘the most depressing day of the year’.
If you are struggling, please reach out for help.
That’s the message from the authorities today, as post-Christmas blues commonly strike worst on the third Monday of January. Turn2Me, a national mental health charity, has stated it is expected that ‘Blue Monday’ will bring an increase in stress and anxiety levels. ‘Blue Monday’ is believed to be particularly stressful due to the combination of post-Christmas blues, the gloomy weather and many people being in ‘the red’ with credit card bills or stretching their December paycheque.
Gardaí in Donegal are inviting people to look out for one another and try to make ‘Blue Monday’ a little bit brighter for everybody we meet today.
“Why not call and check in on someone who lives alone or give someone a call who might appreciate a chat today? Maybe arrange to meet up with that friend who has been quiet and withdrawn recently for a cuppa?”
“If you are aware of someone who may need to talk because of depression or if life is becoming too much for you and you need to talk to someone then there are a number of services who you can reach out to.
“Help is just a call or a text away.”
For immediate support especially if you are in suicidal distress, please call Pieta. Ending Suicide. Beginning Hope on their 24/7 Freephone crisis helpline 1800 247 247 or text ‘HELP’ to 51444 (standard message rates apply)
Text 50808 is a free, anonymous 24/7 support service funded by the HSE.
Crisis volunteers are available 24/7 to listen and offer support. Free-text ‘TALK’ to 50808 for support.
North West STOP-Suicide Prevention offer a free counselling service and they may be contacted by calling or texting 086-7772009.
“Please always feel free to contact your local Garda District Headquarters 24/7 should you need someone to talk to or if you need information on support services. Our door is always open,” a garda spokesperson said.
Letterkenny 074-9167100
Milford 074-9153060
Buncrana 074-9320540
Ballyshannon 071-9858530
Turn2Me offers up to six free counselling sessions to every adult in Ireland and unlimited support groups on anxiety, depression, grief, and relationship issues.
Turn2Me is also running free mental health services for anyone struggling with their mental health in 2023. Turn2Me offers free one-to-one counselling sessions, free support groups, and a free ‘Thought Catcher’ mood diary. To sign up for any of these free mental health services, go to Turn2Me.ie
