Residents of Danescourt have come up with a colour-coded system in order to combat Coronavirus-related anxiety around Halloween
Coloured pumpkins will be used by households in Danescourt, Llandaff to indicate whether they are comfortable being approached by trick-or-treaters in a bid to alleviate anxiety.
The agreed solution of a coding system outside the house, using either pumpkins or a notice to signal whether they want to be involved, came about after a debate began over the best way to deal with those who find the Halloween festivities overwhelming – particularly amid a local lockdown.
The idea was first raised on the communities’ Facebook group which was created during the first lockdown in March and currently has around 700 active members.
The last few months have seen community spirit becoming more important than ever and Danescourt native, Laura Satterly, believes the arrangement will be a huge benefit in giving individuals the control to set their own boundaries.
“It takes away the guilt and worry of what people are going to think if they don’t get involved, and makes them feel thought of,” she said.
“It provides vulnerable people with a space where they can say what they are and are not comfortable with.”
The 21-year-old is optimistic for the success of the trick-or-treat arrangements with previous community efforts and events in Danescourt having gone well in the past.
Local councillor for the ward, Philippa Hill-John said: “Anxiety is heightened right now and it’s a question of reaching out to others in the community to let them know if you are anxious. If you are worried, don’t engage, don’t put yourself out there and don’t go to the door.”
Residents should exercise caution
However, residents should also be careful not to leave themselves exposed to unwarranted attention.
Philippa Hill-John, has warned that caution is also needed when taking part as colour coding may alert others to your vulnerability.
She expressed that communication is key in getting through Halloween safely and said: “It is just about respecting each other.”
Dealing with anxiety at Halloween:
A spokesperson from the National Centre for Mental Health has recommended a number of ways to tackle feelings of anxiety around Halloween:
- Mindfulness and breathing exercises with apps such as Headspace
- Spending quality time with those in your household bubble
- Engaging in activities like cooking or watching a movie
- Ultimately, they recommend to ignore trick-or-treaters if it is too overwhelming and simply signal to the community that you are not comfortable with being approached