Looking after you

Putting yourself first can feel like an impossible task, especially when working in the fast paced, demanding industry that is film and TV. Often your physical and mental wellbeing is at the bottom of your to-do-list. There is a lot that needs to change about the way we work, such as working hours, proper training and recruitment practices, all of which might be outside of your control. But there are simple steps you can take to safeguard your wellbeing and help you perform better at work

 

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Why mental health matters

In 2019 The Film and TV Charity commissioned research into the mental health of our industry, finding almost 9 in 10 had experienced a mental health problem. Read more here

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This animated video from Mind explains how long term exposure to stress can have detrimental effects on us physically and mentally

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'Without you, your business doesn't exist'. Here, the freelance community Leapers explains why mental health matters even more when you're self employed

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How are you doing?

We all benefit from regular mental health check-ins. Take PHE's simple interactive quiz to create your own Mind Plan, with ideas to tackle stress, boost mood and help you feel more in control

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The NHS have created this simple quiz to help you better understand how you've been feeling and point you in the direction of helpful advice and information

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Mental Health First Aid highlights some of the common triggers that might impact our mental health and how to spot the signs that a friend or colleague might need support

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Prospect's practical guide to preventing workplace stress explains what stress is and common triggers. It outlines employers’ responsibilities, including a toolkit for action

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Mind's resource explains anxiety and panic attacks, including possible causes. It gives advice on how you can access treatment and how to support friends or family members with anxiety

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Mind's resource explains depression, its symptoms and possible causes, and how you can access support. Includes self-care tips and guidance for supporting friends and family

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Drink Aware's alcohol self-assessment tool can help you identify if the amount you're drinking could be having a negative impact on your health, with links to information and support

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Looking after your physical health

Bectu's Mental Health and Wellbeing podcast discusses 'five ways to wellbeing' and shares hints and tips to get us feeling, and staying, mentally well when working in film and TV

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Bitesize video from Mind and The Film and TV Charity sharing advice and simple techniques to support your wellbeing and help you rest and recharge during the stressful times

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Heads Up's practical guide includes tips for working in a mentally healthy way and guidance about how lifestyle and relationships impact our mental health

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Fun and free suggestions from the NHS for getting - and staying - fit. From Couch to 5k, to making the great outdoors your gym

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Struggling to get a good night's sleep? This guide from Start Sleeping has handy hints and tips from top experts to help you get more of those all-important Zzzs

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Managing boundaries at work

Negotiating boundaries as a freelancer is hard. Leapers explains why it's the difference between success and struggle, plus advice on putting boundaries in place right from the start

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Learning how to say no when you need to is about saying yes to you. Teacher's Hub explains the importance of 'no' and how to prepare yourself to say it, without feeling guilty

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Networks to help you connect with others

ScreenSkills regularly run a wellbeing 'happiness' drop-in session hosted by Jude Spencer. It's a safe online space to check in and connect with others working in film and TV

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Provides professional and peer support for freelancers, particularly with mental health, as well as bringing meaningful change to working practices in film & TV

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Join others in the creative sector to chat, share experiences and find support. Watch the latest talk here and follow @tweetsatthehub for more

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A community of support for the self-employed. It’s free to join, non-judgmental, open and supportive - and packed with useful resources to support your mental health

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The Unscripted TV branch of Bectu is hosting fortnightly meet-ups for their members, to check in, share experiences and coping strategies. More info on joining here

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Opportunities to volunteer and give back

The ScreenSkills programme pairs up new entrants, those looking for support or returning after a break with mentors from across the industry

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We need your help to keep providing support to individuals in the industry. Find out all the ways you can make a difference here

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Did we miss any?

If there are resources out there that we’ve missed, or information you’d like to see included in the future, send your suggestions to our team

Email your suggestions