The TalkEasyTrust, in association with Mental Health Research UK (MHRUK) is delighted to announce that it is planning to hold a flash mob on Sunday 19th January in at 2pm in Trafalger Square, in order to raise awareness of depression and SAD, primarily focussed around the concept of “Blue Monday” – historically the most depressing day of the year.

MHRUK is once again hosting Blooming Monday in order to help break down the continuing stigma attached to mental illness. One in four people will have some form of mental illness in their lives.

Blooming Monday is an annual campaign which takes place on the third Monday in January, which this year is Monday 20 January 2014.

Winter is here and people tend to wear dark clothing during the winter months; but Blooming Monday is all about brightening up and having a little fun.

Participants in the Gangnam style flash mob are asked to wear their brightest clothing to encourage people to wear bright colours on Blooming Monday the following day.
Members of the Trust will be present and joining the flash mob, as well as being available to discuss its purpose and the idea of Blooming Monday; whilst also discussing depression and how people can look after their mental health.

There will also be events occurring throughout January in local schools, with the Trust speaking about the importance of mental health and the support that the Trust can offer, as well as other local services.

Founder member and Trustee of MHRUK, Dr Laura Davidson, said: “Blooming Monday is an annual campaign to bring some cheer on ‘BlueMonday’.

“On 20 January 2014, we invite everyone to join our Blooming Monday campaign and make a big visual impact by injecting some unexpected colour and joy into the day.

“It’s a simple ask: that everyone wears their brightest clothes on one of the dullest days of the year.  Even if you have to wear formal clothes to work, you can at least wear a bright tie or scarf or even socks for a change, and bring a smile to someone’s face.

“By taking part and encouraging friends and work colleagues to wear bright clothes for Blooming Monday on 20 January 2014, you can make a real difference to those with mental ill-health.
“MHRUK funds research into the causes of mental illness and helping to develop much better treatments to reduce the misery resulting from it.  We welcome all donations and collections, however small, towards a new Blooming Monday  research scholarship on depression.  The easiest way to donate is by text.  For less than the price of your next cup of coffee, please text BLOO22 £2 to 70070.

“Find Blooming Monday on Facebook and Twitter and join in by posting or tweeting photos of you and others wearing your brightest clothes on the day for a chance to win a Blooming Monday t-shirt. The most spectacularly outlandish, neon, clashing outfit will win!”

To find out more, or to keep up to date with MHRUK and its efforts to improve the lives of those suffering from depression, look for the charity’s Facebook page, tweet them at @MHRUKCharity or visit the website at www.mhruk.org/campaigns/

Anyone who would like more information or is willing to assist in any other way can also contact TalkEasy at talkeasytrust@gmail.com