Last Saturday, I had the privilege of attending Mermaids’ third TRANS(CEND) event, an interactive day for trans youth with workshops, guest speakers, and most importantly, community. I was blown away by the positivity, intelligence and laughter in the room.  

What really stuck out for me though was the strength of the young trans adults in the room. In the face of adversity, they stood firm, speaking their truth and imagining a better future. Yet despite this strength, I know they needed to rest too. 

Today, within minutes of the Supreme Court’s ruling, my phone was abuzz with messages of solidarity and sadness. I could see my friends, acquaintances and co-workers were feeling bruised. Amid all the confusion, one message kept coming through: Look after yourself.  

In the current climate, it can feel like the whole world is against you. Things can feel claustrophobic, like they’re getting on top of you. It’s not just you who feels this way. Working on Mermaids’ Support Line is fantastic, but sometimes it can be hard. It’s important we all look after ourselves and that’s why I’m sharing some of my top tips with you.   

Stop Doomscrolling!  

I’m guilty of this. The temptation to check social media and news is strong. Yet seeing all the hot takes, despair and disinformation won’t help. Try and limit your time on your phone. Try and do something else, like…  

Engaging your senses  

This can take many forms. You could try and focus on what’s around you. I’m a big fan of doing the five senses when I’m feeling anxious or stressed. It’s where you notice five things you can see, four things you can touch, three things you can hear, two things you can smell and one thing you can taste. Or maybe you’re someone who needs a distraction. Try listening to music, an interesting podcast or watching a film. 

Lean on your community 

Remember I said about watching a film? Why not have a movie night with friends? In times like this, it really helps to be amongst people who get it. I find being amongst other trans people incredibly healing. Consider joining a trans group.  

Young people aged 12-19 can join our online youth forum which gives them access to our events and community and online groups. Sometimes online groups can feel more manageable, which is why we have things like our online youth drop in. However you access it, your community is there for you. 

Get creative 

Getting creative helps me when things are tough. Writing about how you’re feeling can help you process it. Making art about what’s got you angry can help too (protest signs, anyone?) Equally, mindless doodling can help too. 

Mindfulness 

I used to roll my eyes at mindfulness until I tried it properly. Granted, it’s not for everyone but just taking five to be aware of your surroundings can help. Try a mindfulness shower, focusing on the water on your skin and the smells around you (although please be careful if you’re feeling particularly dysphoric). You could even mindfully make a cuppa; notice the kettle whistling, the stirring of the spoon, and the steam rising. 

Talk to someone 

Talking to someone who gets it is invaluable. At Mermaids, we understand you might be feeling scared, anxious or confused. Please reach out to us, even if it’s just for distraction. We’re always here for you.  

So trans folks and allies, please take it easy today. You are important and we want you to be well. I’ll be thinking of you all tonight during my evening routine, pyjamas on and cuppa in hand. 

Mermaids’ Support line is open Monday-Friday, 1pm-8:30pm. Freephone: 0808 801 0400. You can access webchat via our website.

We will be open as usual on Good Friday and Easter Monday.

For crisis support, text ‘Mermaids’ to 85258. Open 24/7