There’s a lot of different things happening in our lives right now, and as none of us have experienced anything of this scale before, we’re navigating the changes as best we can.
When we experience change or uncertainty it’s proven that anxiety can be heightened. That’s why it’s so important that we all come together and work as one to support each other through these times.
We’re here to support you
At Carnival UK we are here to support you whether that be through our Employee Assistance Programme (EAP), external support we have shared in our communications, or through the Wellbeing team, your medical team on board, or your line manager/supervisor.
However, we understand that sometimes it’s easier to talk to someone you know and trust, someone going through the same thing, which is why we strongly advocate peer support too.
Peer support
Peer support is really important, especially on board or for those self isolating, when close friends and family are sometimes not available. It’s when colleagues help one another based on their own experiences.
You might share similar interests, similar experiences, the same cultural background or a similar mental or physical health condition. But it’s not always about getting or giving advice. It’s also about having a safe space to get things off your chest and occasionally sharing a laugh and comfort too.
The benefits of peer support are;
- Open and honest conversations
- Exposure to new ideas and approaches
- Reassurance – you are not alone!
- Connection with others
- Helps to identify your strengths
- Builds self esteem and confidence
- Boosts mood and hope for the future
The great thing about peer support is we can all be both providers and seekers of support.
If you think your colleague could benefit from support …
1. Look
Are they displaying any signs of stress such as; avoiding others, irritability, anxiety, not eating, not sleeping, body pain, nausea, exhaustion?
2. Listen
Sometimes when we are experiencing challenging times we find it hard to communicate this as we don’t want to burden others. However, talking about our problems quite often puts a stop to them getting worse – a problem shared is a problem halved! If you think a colleague is struggling, ask them “Are you OK?” Be kind, empathetic and non judgemental, a listening ear can go a long way.
3. Link
Whilst we actively encourage everyone to support one another we by no means expect you to have all the answers to everyone’s problems. Instead we encourage you to;
- Connect with others and recommend people who might be able to help.
- Access information and resources available and encourage others to use these too.
- Have time & patience – take a short walk with them, arrange a call or a chat over a coffee and demonstrate your support.
Self check-in
It’s important to be kind and compassionate to ourselves too. We’ve produced a useful end of shift checklist which can be used daily to stay on top of your wellbeing needs as well as those around you.
- Acknowledge one thing that was difficult about your day and let it go
- Consider 3 things that went well
- What could you do differently and improve on tomorrow?
- Are your colleagues OK? Could you take the time to support anyone more?
- Are you OK?
.. now switch your attention to rest and recharge.
If you are ever concerned about a colleague, remember your line manager and mental health champions are there to support you and them.
You can find a full list of all mental health champions here, or speak with your line manager for more information.