Practical Advice 

I need practical advice about scleroderma and /or Raynaud’s 

• Helpline - The Helpline offers confidential support if you are living with and affected by scleroderma and/or Raynaud's. If you need to talk, we are here to listen. Call free on 0800 311 2756.

Talk to Others

I want to talk to people about scleroderma and/or Raynaud’s 

• Keep in Touch Support Service - Our new Keep in Touch Support Service is a telephone-based service designed for anyone who is shielding or self-isolating. You can now receive a regular 25 minute phone call to chat with one of our volunteers about absolutely anything, at an agreed time.
• Support groups - Our support groups are there for anyone who is affected by scleroderma and/or Raynaud's. Talking to others who are living through similar experiences can be very helpful.
• Our online community - Our online forum hosted on Health Unlocked is a friendly space where you can exchange advice, information and support with others who are affected by scleroderma and Raynaud's, 24 hours a day, seven days a week. Many of our community members are people who live with Raynaud’s and scleroderma but friends, family and partners are very welcome too.
• Social media - Join together and support each other through social media. Discuss topics, share tips and read others' advice on our Facebook and Twitter pages.

Mental Health 

I need to look after my mental health due to COVID-19

The constant media updates and barrage of statistics can be overwhelming and at times may feel inescapable, and it is critical that we all take steps to protect our mental health and emotional wellbeing. Dr Jo Daniels recently hosted our SRUK Facebook Live Q&A on Mental and Emotional Wellbeing. She provided excellent advice and tips to help you cope during this time of shielding and self-isolating. Please follow the link to watch part 1 and part 2 the video.

Dr Daniels’ advice on how to manage your mental health during a pandemic:

1. Prevent information overload
   Limit the extent to which you are reading or watching the news updates surrounding COVID-19. This unprecedented onslaught of new information can worsen feelings of stress, anxiety and worry. Make the decision to look at the news for up to 15 minutes, twice a day. This way, you remain up to day and in control of your situation. Also consider the sources of your news. Stick to trusted news outlets such as BBC News, The Guardian and the NHS website.
   
   
2. Reduce social media use
   Social media is a valuable resource to help reduce feelings of isolation, however it can be a source of ‘fake news’ and speciation. Just like other information channels, it is important to find a balance so that you can stay connected to your loved ones and the world around you, without feeling overwhelmed. Deciding on specific times to check social media accounts and unfollowing or muting any sources that share content that makes you feel uncomfortable or stressed can go a long way in helping to keep anxiety levels low.
   
   
3. Keep in touch with friends and family
   Agree regular check in times to speak to your loved ones. You can get creative with some shared activities on these calls such a playing a quiz or watching a film as a group, or you can simply have a catch-up.