Helping others helps you cope, say British Red Cross volunteers, as survey shows 55% of UK adults’ mental health has been negatively impacted by the pandemic

British Red Cross volunteers in Wales say talking to family and friends, spending time in nature and being kind to others through volunteering have improved their mental health while working on the frontline of the coronavirus response.

A survey, released ahead of World Mental Health Day (October 10), shows a massive 75% of British adults were concerned for people helping on the frontline, considering them to have a greater need for mental health support than the average person living through the pandemic. The kindness of the public is heart-warming, as over half (55%) of UK adults also said Covid-19 had negatively impacted their own mental health. The findings are from a report from the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC), which polled UK adults alongside six other countries.

Red Cross staff and volunteers supporting Welsh communities admitted their mental health had been impacted by the Covid-19 pandemic but said their wellbeing had also been improved by helping people through acts of kindness.

Volunteers suggested reading, regular exercise and listening to podcasts as ways of staying calm while helping others. Many also found comfort in spending time in nature, but the power of talking with family and friends was another key way people looked after themselves.

Sue Thompson, British Red Cross volunteer president for Powys said: “The most important thing we can do at the moment is start talking; talking about our problems, what we find difficult and how we are feeling. Then people who are struggling can talk about things before they escalate. Flexible, caring support at the right time, really showing that you understand, can transform the feelings of someone who is having a hard time.”

The value of talking things through, and the negative impact on people without family and friends to chat to, was recognised by the charity earlier this year when it launched its free Coronavirus support line. With 15 out of Wales’ 22 counties now facing local lockdown restrictions, the charity is encouraging people to call 0808 1963651 if they feel lonely, worried or in need of assistance.

The support line has received more than 11,000 calls since it was launched in April. It is a one-stop-shop for emotional and practical help and is available from 10am and 6pm every day. Volunteers are there to chat and can also signpost callers to further assistance in their area, whether that’s from a Red Cross volunteer nearby or another organisation that can help. Supported by Tesco, the service is confidential and open to anyone. For those who don’t speak English, translators are available, or people can email if they prefer.

For more information visit redcross.org.uk/get-help/coronavirus/support-line or SupportLine@redcross.org.uk