Video: Don’t be afraid to reach out to others and offer them support during COVID-19

Editor’s Note: The Leibniz Network conducted a series of webinars to help researchers manage their mental health during the COVID-19 pandemic. This video was originally published as part of this series and has been republished here with permission. The original video can be accessed here.

This is a continuation of the previous segment in which Dr. Desiree Dickerson, Academic Mental Health and Well-Being Consultant, shared some useful tips to help researchers deal with their mental health during the COVID-19 pandemic. Here, Dr. Dickerson shares some priceless advice on how you can offer support to fellow researchers who are finding it difficult to cope with the COVID-19 lockdown and the uncertainties surrounding the pandemic – primarily by being a good and patient listener, by not being afraid to deal with them breaking down into tears, and by being prepared to direct them to professionals if needed. She goes on to share how postdoctoral researchers need to make a mindset shift about their own expectations from themselves.

Watch the entire webinar series:

• Part 1: Mental health and well-being resources during the COVID-19 pandemic
• Part 3: Common misconception – Only those with problems in their research face mental health issues
• Part 4: Dear researchers – It’s alright to ask for help when you need it!
• Part 5: Grow stronger by accepting your limitations
• Part 6: Try to be compassionate to yourself and to others
• Part 7: You should open up to someone you trust
• Part 8: Online therapy sessions might help you get through these tough times!