Over a third of Brits rely on a warm cup of tea to help them make difficult decisions, according to research.
A study of 2,000 adults revealed others reach for the beloved cuppa after a stressful day, to take some time out and when they need to concentrate properly.
The list of top 10 situations where a brew is called upon also include to unwind and when in need of an energy boost.
In fact, 44% said stopping for a cup of tea is the best way to add clarity to a situation and 35% credit it for helping them avoid making a grave mistake.
Nearly one in four (24%) even say the process of making a cup of tea is cathartic as it helps them calm down.
The research was commissioned by Santander to mark the launch of its Safe-Tea, a calming brew designed to encourage people to consider if they’re being pressured to move their money to another account by a suspected impersonation scammer – something which 58% of Brits have experienced.
Chris Ainsley, head of fraud risk management at the financial services company said: “A brew is not only a great way to calm nerves in a stressful situation but encourages people to take that all important out before acting.
“That’s why we’ve launched Safe-Tea – as we know that scammers’ rule of thumb is to apply pressure, stress and urgency on their targets, which can result in people acting in a way they would not have if they’d taken a moment to calm down and reflect first.
“Always check who you are speaking with – people impersonate me often enough, and if you’re being pressured to move your money – whatever the reason – take some time to carefully think what you’re being asked to do.”
It comes after the research revealed of those who have been targeted by impersonation scammers, 65% claim the act was convincing.
Their politeness, knowing certain bits of information and sounding very professional are the top reasons why those who have been targeted had to stop and consider the legitimacy of the call.
While these scammers most commonly pretend to be a bank (33%), internet provider (28%), or government agency (27%).
Worryingly, one in five are fearful they could succumb to an impersonation scam, with two-thirds thinking more should be done to raise awareness of them.
And of those who have not been pursued by these scammers, 54% weren’t aware they even existed before being quizzed.
Dr Meg Arroll, a chartered psychologist who has teamed up with Santander for the campaign, said: “In times of stress, people tend to forget to take a moment to objectively evaluate their situation.
“In this heightened state, some may end up doing things they would not have done had they taken a moment out to collect their thoughts.
“During moments like this, remember to stop, breathe and mull it over with a cuppa – just don’t feel pressurised into responding before you’ve thought it through.
