Some travellers face sensory overload and anxiety whilst on London transport.
Large crowds, enclosed spaces, and repetitive announcements are all factors to people being overwhelmed, according to a report by the Mental Health Foundation.
The London Underground is a particular cause.
City News spoke to qualified counsellor and manager of Foundations Therapy Group, Claire Burton, about the possible effects these can have on travellers:
“Sensory overload can sometimes cause mood swings, increased heart rate, blood pressure and an inability to keep themselves safe”
Walking can be an alternative
One way to combat this is above ground, with Transport for London (TfL) publishing a walking tube map showing the minutes it takes to walk between stations on the same line. Claire says,
“Big crowds on the streets of central London can be challenging for people with sensory issues too, however the ability to move into a quieter space means it’s easier to manage sensory overload”
TfL literature reminds passengers who become unwell using the Underground to get off at the next stop where staff at the station will be able to assist.
City News has reached out to TfL for a comment on the report finding.
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HeadlineTfL walking map shows distance between stations
Short HeadlineTube can be 'overwhelming' for passengers
StandfirstSome passengers fear abuse or assault on the Underground
Some travellers face sensory overload and anxiety whilst on London transport.
Large crowds, enclosed spaces, and repetitive announcements are all factors to people being overwhelmed, according to a report by the Mental Health Foundation.
The London Underground is a particular cause.
City News spoke to qualified counsellor and manager of Foundations Therapy Group, Claire Burton, about the possible effects these can have on travellers:
“Sensory overload can sometimes cause mood swings, increased heart rate, blood pressure and an inability to keep themselves safe”
Walking can be an alternative
One way to combat this is above ground, with Transport for London (TfL) publishing a walking tube map showing the minutes it takes to walk between stations on the same line. Claire says,
“Big crowds on the streets of central London can be challenging for people with sensory issues too, however the ability to move into a quieter space means it’s easier to manage sensory overload”
TfL literature reminds passengers who become unwell using the Underground to get off at the next stop where staff at the station will be able to assist.
City News has reached out to TfL for a comment on the report finding.
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