Feel like crap? There's an emoji for that

We’ve all been there – especially in the last 12 months. Feeling so crap that when a mate asks you something you type out – then delete – loads of messages because you just can’t find the words to explain.

So, one year since the first lockdown was announced on 23 March 2020, we’ve taken the fact that people are feeling crap literally and come up with an emoji that you can use to show your mates and family how you feel when words fail you.

Simple. Easy. Clear – that’s where #FeelLikeCrap comes in. Crap? Low? Overwhelmed? Just can’t be bothered right now? It says it all and it only takes one tap. It’s a way to start to open up and say you’re not doing well – so that if things do get really tough it’s a little easier to speak up.

We know the hardest step for many is finding the words to start the conversation and tell someone you’re struggling. In a poll on our socials 90% of you told us you struggled to start a conversation when you’re feeling like crap. That’s why we’re doing this.

You can screengrab it here, go old school and right click to save it or find it on Insta stories through Giphy (just search Campaign Against Living Miserably). Use it, share it (using the hashtag #feellikecrap) – let’s create something that means people can show people they’re feeling a bit shit even if they can’t find the words.

We’re also calling on Unicode Consortium (the emoji overlords) to include it on every phone and device so people can take the first steps towards telling a friend or loved one that they are struggling with their mental wellbeing and need to talk.

And we have the stats to show why. In the first week of lockdown this time last year, we saw a 40% increase in demand for our helpline compared to pre Covid levels. Since lockdown we’ve answered 123,075 calls and chats – that’s a call for help answered every 56 seconds. That’s why, as we progress through this confusing and stressful roadmap to lockdown easing, we believe that a new emoji to communicate feeling when you’re feeling crap, low or overwhelmed is more necessary than ever.

NEED SUPPORT?

If you’re struggling, we’ve got loads of tools and resources to help you find the support you need, including a life-saving suicide prevention helpline for people who can’t see a way forward, have lost someone to suicide, or are worried about their friends or loved ones. Find out more about all the services CALM offers here.