We know it’s hard out there! We are not suggesting that drinking water and going for a walk is going to fix everything. But we do suggest you drink enough water and, if it’s right for you, move your body in a way that brings you joy.
We’ve pulled together some resources that we have found helpful for looking after ourselves and our loved ones, and that you might find helpful too. This is just a start – we will be adding to the list! Please let us know if you have any recommendations.
In an emergency or crisis
- Call 999 or call 111 and choose the mental health option, or text SHOUT to 85258
- Contact the Safe Haven on 01865 903 037 or osh@oxfordshiremind.org.uk
- Contact Samaritans on 116123 or jo@samaritans.org
- Contact LGBT Switchboard on 0800 0119 100, hello@switchboard.lgbt or via online chat
Taking care of others
- Look after your mate – this is aimed at students, but is useful for anyone who wants to support someone they love who is struggling
- Trans Rules of Engagement – looking after ourselves and each other in community
Taking care of yourself
- Lots of great resources via TransActual – including self-care ideas from the community
- Are you Hungry, Angry, Lonely or Tired?
- A video to talk you through getting out of bed
- Mind advice on self-care
- RAIN meditation – Recognise what is happening, Allow the feeling or experience to be, Investigate the feeling with care, Nurture yourself with self-compassion.
- Self-care and community care tools inspired by the work of Audre Lorde and her ‘Recipe for Healing’
A better relationship with your phone
- Practical tips if you find yourself doomscrolling
- Digital self-harm – a guide to recognising the signs and taking care of yourself
Our ‘Taking care of me’ mini toolkit – print it off, fold it up and fill it out to remind you of the ways of taking care of yourself that work best for you. We recommend filling it out with a friend!
