On Friday 26th March, we hosted our very own virtual event, The Make Events Show.
The last 12 months have been tough on everyone and the issues surrounding mental health have been on everyone’s minds. Feelings of loneliness have more than doubled over the lockdown period and there are many that are already feeling anxious about life post pandemic.
To try and put it in context, we spoke to Dr Ranj, who is in charge of one of the country’s busiest children’s A&E departments whilst he reassures the nation on ITV’s This Morning.
Here’s what we learnt!
We won’t snap back to normality straight away
With the easing of lockdown, it’s natural people will have anxieties about being in large groups of people. We will have a gradual opening with outdoor events being much more popular this summer.
“If anyone is feeling worried, the risk of transmission in outdoor spaces is tiny compared to it indoors.”
At Make Events and HM Events, we are seeing more enquiries for outdoor events with options for marquees if the weather is bad. It is also important we consider a plan b if further lockdown restrictions are put in place.
The future will be about flexibility
There is nothing like the connection of a live event, but the pandemic has taught that we can communicate in many more ways than we originally thought.
“I imagine we will go back to a hybrid model of live and online. The beauty of online events is that they are more accessible to people who have disabilities or childcare needs.”
There is no one size fits all when it comes to mental health
Never be afraid to ask for help, there are lots of organisations, charities and helplines who are ready and waiting to help you.
“We have to remember that the feelings we’re having at the minute are normal, even if they are slightly out of proportion for us. We have to remember how much the world has changed!”
Get the basics right!
Whilst we couldn’t provide nuanced, individual help on The Make Events Show, it is important to remember the basics.
Structure your day
Get outside
Get a good night’s sleep
Be as social as you can (as safely as possible)
Read more about mental health in the workplace here.
Samaritans | MIND | NHS | ReThink
