Pride can be a fun-packed time to celebrate with friends and loved ones but it can also make people feel lonely, isolated and unsafe. Here are some tips to help ensure you can participate safely, and take care of your mental health…
- Check in with yourself and find out how you are feeling about Pride and what you actually want from the weekend – that could mean deciding not to participate at all if you don’t feel ok. Remember that looking after yourself is paramount and your mental wellbeing really matters
- If you don’t fancy the crowds at Preston park then how about the free DIY Pride event https://www.facebook.com/DIYPRIDEBRIGHTON at Queens Park this year on Saturday 3rd August from 2.00-8.00pm
- If at all possible, go to Pride events with another person. Is there someone who you could have as a Pride buddy? To check in with if you don’t feel ok? If not pop along to the MindOut stall in the Community Village section in the park and say hi
- Pace yourself, stay hydrated, avoid too much alcohol and remember to eat
- There is a huge welfare area in the park if you feel unwell…you can visit it for a bit of quiet time.
- MindOut will be running an online support session on Friday 2nd August and check out our website for opening times and signposting to other sources of support www.mindout.org.uk
- Charge your phone and bring chargers and/or extra battery packs.
- Always trust your instincts. If you feel threatened or unsafe, remove yourself from the situation as quickly as possible.
- Do what you can to take care of others as well – just being aware of what’s going on around you and checking in with others about how they are doing can be a good way to look after yourself as well.
Whatever you do, please take care of yourself and each other.
