Manchester Arena bombing - Mind's advice for coping with traumatic events

Want to talk to someone?

• Our online support community Elefriends offers safety, support, friendship and peer support online. 
  The Samaritans are always there for confidential, emotional support, whatever you’re going through. Call them on 116 123 or email [email protected]
• If you feel you need to talk to a GP about how you are feeling our information on seeking help can help you.
• Our network of local Minds may be able to provide support and advice to you in your local area. We know that some in the north west are putting on some specialist services over the coming days in response to this incident. You can get in touch with your local Mind here.  

Feeling stressed, anxious or angry?

You could try someone of our tips on coping with stress or watch this video on relaxation. If you’re feeling angry, and are struggling to cope with it, this info might be helpful. If you’re feeling uneasy, worried or fearful, take a look at our info on coping with anxiety and panic attacks.

Feeling low or hopeless?

In many people stressful or tragic events can cause their mood to drop suddenly. Our info on depression self-care might help you if this is how you are feeling right now.

Feeling unsafe?

Traumatic events can trigger thoughts about harming yourself, hurting others or ending your life.

• In this situation the quickest way to get help is to call 999 or go to A&E.
  But if that does not feel possible, we have some info on the other types of crisis services available here.
• You could also try this online tool, designed by visitors to our site, to help you deal with these thoughts and feelings.

Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)

We have been asked a lot this morning about PTSD and whether those present at last night’s events are at risk.

While it is impossible to speculate on the lasting impact to specific individuals, especially since everyone will react so differently, the Royal College of Psychiatrists have some information on the immediate impact of a traumatic event, which can tell you more about what to expect, and how to look after yourself.

If you already have a diagnosis of PTSD, it is understandable that memories and feelings from your own experiences might be on your mind more over the next few days or weeks. It may be helpful to take a look at our information on self-care.

Young people and children

We know that many of the people affected are young people or children who are particularly vulnerable.

Info for parents

• If you are a parent, you may find this information on traumatic stress in children might be helpful (from the Royal College of Psychiatrists
• If you are worried about your child and want to talk to someone, Young Minds' parents helpline might be helpful.

Info for young people

• Childline’s website have a huge amount of resources for young people who are struggling. You can talk to someone online, play games or watch videos which will all help you to cope today. You can also call them to talk to someone directly on 0800 1111.
• BBC Newsround have put together some advice on what to do if you're upset too.

Emergency service staff

We know that many people from fire, ambulance and police services will have been working during both incidents. It is really important that you look after your own emotional wellbeing too.

Our Blue Light information resources might be helpful. We have a dedicated Infoline on 0300 303 5999 (open Mon-Fri 9am-6pm) if you’d like some information or support too. 

This service is open to colleagues and family members too, and doesn’t need to be about a recent incident.