While conventions are the perfect place to meet new people and dive into your favourite fandom, we know they can also be overwhelming at times. If you’re feeling anxious about attending MCM, here’s a handy guide for how to manage this on the day, along with some less hectic spots on the show floor you can head to when you need a breather.
MCM Show Guide: If you’re feeling overwhelmed…
Before the show…
There are several things you can do before you even arrive at the venue to make your day run as smoothly as possible:
Have a look at all the info on our website or official MCM mobile app to make a plan for your time at the show, including the panels you want to watch, or activities you want to take part in. There will be lots to take in on the day, so making a priority list you can check off will help things work for you.
When meeting guests, be sure to take into account queueing time, and give yourself lunch and bathroom breaks!
Don’t forget to let your friends know you’re headed to MCM Comic Con. Having friends at the show with you can be really helpful if you’re feeling anxious, but sharing how you feel with supportive friends not joining us at the show can be helpful too.
Familiarise yourself with the venue layout, so you have a good understanding of where the amenities are located. Visit the ExCeL, London’s website for further details.
For sensory overstimulation, our fans say that packing headphones to have on hand when it gets a bit noisy, and a plushie or something similar to hold onto.
At the show…
First (and most importantly!) don’t put too much pressure on yourself; you’re there to make memories and have fun, after all!
If you feel like things are getting a little too much, don’t hesitate to take a second away from the crowds until you’re feeling comfortable enough to carry on with your day.
Here are a few areas around the event to head to when you’re looking to catch a break…
- Sidequest
Brush off the show floor noise by checking out an old favourite from our console gaming library, or try your hand at something new in the tabletop gaming area. We’ve got titles to play solo, or try with like minded folk - the choice is yours.
- Pop Asia Workshops
Creativity can be the best stress reliever of all. Pull up a chair and try your hand at the tranquil art of paper folding, or put pen to paper in our Manga drawing drop-in station.
- Watch a Panel
Panels: like podcasts, but live! Give yourself a minute (or 40) to take a seat and hear from pros, discover your new favourite author, or catch a screening in one of our many scheduled panel sessions.
Still not feeling great? Head to the Reset Room.
The Reset Room is a dedicated spot for you to rest, relax and reset. This year, our Reset Room will be staffed by the team from “Gaming The Mind”, a charity run by mental health experts, combining healthcare expertise with a passion for video games and geek culture.
Whether you’re feeling anxious, overstimulated, or just need a moment by yourself, our Gaming the Mind volunteers will help you recharge and get back to enjoying the convention. They’ll be happy to have a chat, provide lo-fi activities to help you unwind, or even supply further information on managing your mental health.
Moreover, if you feel like you, or someone you’re with, requires emergency medical assistance, please don’t hesitate to alert a staff member. You can do this via our mobile app, contacting +447818 988748 on WhatsApp, or visit the Organiser’s Office. Remember, you’re not in this alone!
We’ll see you at the show!