How to take the C.A.L.M.E.R approach to stress and anxiety

The C.A.L.M.E.R. approach is a useful acronym developed by the British Red Cross’ psychosocial and mental health team. Using it will enable you to easily remember a few healthy steps you can take when you or someone you know feels anxious or helpless about the current situation.

C. Consider your own needs and those closest in your life 

A. Acknowledge the sources of stress and how it impacts on you

L. Listen to how you're feeling physically and mentally

M. Manage. Ways to manage your stress and regain control

E. Enable.  What has enabled you to cope with stress in the past? 

R. Resources. What do you need to put steps in place? 

Think of something you are going to do soon.
How could using the C.A.L.M.E.R. framework help to make you more confident about it going well? Write this down and look at it again to keep reminding yourself of how this will help you to manage the situation well.

Who to call

Call the free support line for advice on British Red Cross support, or call just to chat. The friendly team are there to listen.

Call: 0808 196 3651 

• Monday: 10am - 5pm
• Tuesday: 10am - 5pm
• Wednesday: 10am - 8pm
• Thursday: 10am - 5pm
• Friday: 10am - 5pm 

The British Red Cross can help with:

• Loneliness
• Support at home
• Money problems
• Hiring a wheelchair

For more activities and information to help build confidence, coping skills and improve your wellbeing, visit: redcross.org.uk/wellbeing-support.

For free online, telephone and face to face wellbeing workshops offering you the chance to connect with others and learn new skills, get in touch by email redcrosseducation@redcross.org.uk or call the team to find out more: 0344 412 2734.