You may be feeling disturbed by things in the news, or worried about the safety of loved ones. In difficult and distressing times, it’s important for us to support one another. Find out how to look after your wellbeing and where to go for support if you need it.
Understanding our feelings
It’s normal to have different reactions to a traumatic event. Some of us may have intense feelings, especially if we were close to the incident or have connections. It’s essential to acknowledge our emotions, and also to remember that recovery will come in time. But of course it’s okay to take time and seek support if needed.
We also appreciate the strength of feeling generated in both staff and students across the university by recent events. We strive to be an organisation where all individuals feel welcome and supported and take a zero-tolerance approach to any form of discrimination on campus. If you experience any discrimination, please use our Report + Support tool so that we can quickly connect you with appropriate support within the University.
Coping strategies – taking care of ourselves
Let’s check in with ourselves and others. How are you feeling right now? Wellbeing and Coping is a helpful resource for coping techniques. If you’re overwhelmed, try some quick 30-second strategies mentioned there.
Self-care is essential during challenging times. Prioritise spending time with friends and loved ones who bring you comfort. Stick to your routines, get enough sleep, eat healthily, and stay hydrated. Engage in physical activities and try to get outside, preferably in nature or a nearby park. Be mindful of your social media usage and avoid getting caught up in negative news. By taking care of ourselves, we can better support each other.
Communicating and Reaching Out
If you’re struggling, it’s okay if you don’t feel like talking about things right away. However, if you need someone to listen, know that there are people who care and are here for you. Reach out to trusted friends, family members, or the Student Welfare team at Kent, who will advise you on how we can support you at this difficult time.
24/7 support services
For support at any time of day or night, check out the Emergency Support page with details on online and telephone support available for Kent students, including our support partners:
- Spectrum Life can offer you online, text and telephone support from qualified counsellors and mental health professionals.
You can also find out about local and remote organisations using the self-help resource list from Student Support and Wellbeing.
Although you may wish to stay informed, it is important to be aware of your limits.
Here are some things you can do to retain some balance:
- Connect with friends and family members.
- Go for a walk in the fresh air.
- Listen to a podcast.
- Listen to some soothing or inspiring music.
- Write out your thoughts and feelings in a journal.
- Go to the gym.
- Grab a coffee with a friend.
- Connecting with nature can be very soothing, there are some lovely walks on campus or along the river Stour.
- Have you caught the bus to Whitstable yet, why not have a walk along the beach?
- Try to have a regular sleep pattern.
- Try to eat healthily which will help when you are feeling emotionally depleted.
- Listen to some guided meditations as these can really help as a distraction from racing thoughts.
Highlighting acts of support
In times like these, it’s important to focus on the positive aspects of how our community comes together. Let’s recognise the people who have helped and supported others.