Our thoughts are with everyone affected by the riots occurring across the UK 💛
Whether or not you are part of a directly targeted community or city, these events may still impact you. It’s natural to feel concern for yourself, family, loved ones, colleagues or community.
Dr Ramesh Perera-Delcourt, our Head of Psychology, shares a few things you might find helpful for taking care of yourself or others:
✍ Acknowledge the situation and the emotions it stirs up. You could write down or even just name what you’re feeling. This can help you understand the feeling, let it be there, then pass.
📚 Make time for things that replenish you, such as reading, watching TV, savouring food, trying to stick to a sleep routine, or any kind of physical activity.
🤝 Connect with support systems. Human connection can be a powerful source of comfort and strength. Try to connect with those who support you and, if you feel able to do so, those who you can support, both inside and outside of work.
💛 Be kind to yourself and others. Speak to yourself with the same kindness and understanding you would offer to someone you care about – with a warm tone of voice, recognising that you are doing your best and focussing on what’s right for you.
📵 Manage media consumption. You can set time limits on how much you check the news and social media. Unfollow or mute what distresses you and focus on accounts or news stories that uplift you or make you feel hopeful.
👉 Ensure physical safety. Be aware of any risks of violence in your local area and avoid these spots if possible. Your physical safety is paramount, and taking precautions can help you feel more secure.
✨ Support charities combatting racism or supporting asylum seekers and refugees, such as:
✨ HOPE not hate
✨ Exit Hate Trust
✨ Stop Hate UK
✨ British Red Cross
✨ Migrant Voice
✨ Refugee Action
We've made a selection of short Unmind resources free to access that might help you at this time.
If you need to talk to someone, follow the Help Guide link in the comments, or you can call Mind's Support Line on 0300 102 1234
Strategist and UK Health Coach
2moRachel Cook Paul McGuigan this is very relevant to the conversations we’ve been having recently