As the new year begins, many employees feel the midwinter slump—but even a simple tea break can make a big difference. Dr Alex George has teamed up with Three UK and the Samaritans for the Tea Leave initiative, encouraging people to take a 30-minute wellbeing break during the working day in 2026.
We spoke with Dr Alex George about workplace wellbeing, mental health, and how simple moments of connection can transform the working day.
Why Workers Struggle to Step Away
Q. Why do so many workers struggle to step away from their desks, even for short breaks, despite knowing it could benefit their wellbeing?
Dr Alex George:
“It’s easy to get caught up in deadlines and emails and before you know it, the day has flown by. People often feel like they can’t afford to step away or that others will judge them. Sometimes it just takes a small reminder of how important it is to take a few minutes for yourself, get outside and connect with loved ones – be that in person or by phone.”
The Power of Informal Conversations
Q. The research shows that simple tea or coffee breaks can spark some of the most meaningful conversations at work — why are these informal moments so powerful for mental health?
Dr George:
“Those unplanned chats are where people let their guard down and can be the key to opening up. You’re not in ‘work-mode’, you’re just two people having a chat. In these moments, people may feel safe enough to say how they’re really feeling, which is why listening is often more important than sharing. Moments like that are surprisingly effective at reducing stress and helping people to feel seen or heard.”
Everyday Check-Ins Break the Stigma
Q. With 25% of workers saying they don’t feel confident discussing their mental health with colleagues, what role can everyday check-ins play?
Dr George:
“It might not always feel like it, but a simple check-in can have a positive impact and make mental health a normal part of conversation rather than something awkward or taboo. Even a quick, casual ‘How are things?’ can signal that it’s okay to be honest. Over time, those small consistent interactions make it easier for someone to speak up if they’re struggling.”
Recognising Early Signs of Burnout
Q. You’ve spoken about how easy it is for the workday to slip by — what are the early signs that someone might be heading towards burnout without realising it?
Dr George:
“Burnout often creeps up slowly. You might notice someone is more distant than usual, feeling exhausted, or finding everyday things overwhelming. Often they tell themselves they just need to push through, but the reality is they may need to pause, and consider a wellbeing recovery plan—such as getting better sleep, more exercise, maintaining work-life balance, and staying connected with loved ones.”
Connection Over Perks
Q. Why do you think connection with colleagues ranks higher for wellbeing than things like dedicated wellbeing spaces or team-building days?
Dr George:
“I know first-hand how easy it can be to not prioritise your own wellbeing at work. But it’s not a ‘one-size-fits-all’ approach, which is why it’s important to give people more flexibility and time to look after themselves whilst at work. For me, getting outside for a stomp and catch up is essential—never underestimate the power of a ‘walk and talk’.”
Encouraging Breaks: The Tea Leave Initiative
Q. How can employers create a culture where taking breaks — like ‘Tea Leave’ — feels genuinely encouraged rather than something employees feel guilty about?
Dr George:
“The Tea Leave initiative launched by Three UK is a great example of how something really simple can make a big difference. Encouraging people to take a 30-minute no-questions-asked break away from their desk, to catch up with others, demonstrates the company’s commitment to supporting and improving wellbeing in the workplace. After all, happy staff are more productive.”
Remote and Hybrid Workers
Q. For people working remotely or in hybrid roles, how can they still benefit from moments of connection similar to a shared tea break?
Dr George:
“Little moments of connection are essential, even if you’re not physically together. A video call over a brew with your mum, or sending a message to a friend you haven’t spoken to in a while, can give you the same mental reset. Small moments of connection can make a big difference to someone else’s day, so pick up your phone and make that call today!”
Challenging Blue Monday
Q. Brew Monday aims to challenge the idea of ‘Blue Monday’ — what misconceptions about mental health at this time of year do you think still need tackling?
Dr George:
“Ultimately Blue Monday is a bit of a myth, there’s no single ‘most depressing day of the year’ as people can struggle at any time. Which is why I’m a big advocate of Three & Samaritans’ Brew Monday campaign that turns the concept on its head and encourages people to take the time to connect with others. Instead of focusing on the short days and bad weather, try to reframe it as a time to look after yourself and celebrate how far you’ve come, creating a more positive mindset.”
Maintaining External Relationships
Q. The research suggests workers want to use breaks in 2026 to reconnect with friends and family more — why is this important?
Dr George:
“The relationships we have outside work can help us feel supported and keep perspective. Seven in ten workers say moments of connection, with colleagues or loved ones, play a key role in mental wellbeing. Giving people permission to step away, like with Three’s Tea Leave initiative, can help reduce stress, allow the brain to recharge, and improve overall workplace wellbeing.”
One Small Habit That Makes a Big Difference
Q. If people take just one thing away from the ‘Tea Leave’ campaign, what small habit would you encourage them to build into their working day?
Dr George:
“Build in one intentional moment each day for yourself where you can get outside, take a pause and connect with a loved one. Without fail I get outside—often with Rolo each morning—and frame this as a calm, positive way to start the day. It’s a small thing but can make a huge difference.”
For more information on Brew Monday and how to improve mental health at work, visit the Samaritans website and explore Three UK’s Tea Leave initiative.
