mental Health & COvid- 19
How can you combat fear and stress during a time like this?
You see warning signs of mental health issues in your child, now what?
You see warning signs of mental health issues in your child, now what?
1. Know the facts - sharing and understanding the risk for you and people you care about can make this situation less stressful.https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/symptoms-testing/share-facts.html
2. If you’re a parent, your children may be combating some strong feelings as well. Children and teens respond differently to stress. Pay attention to new or outgrown behaviors.
3. Limit your exposure to new’s coverage (ie. Social media, tv, news articles)
4. If you’re on the front lines, remember to take time for yourself and acknowledge that secondary traumatic stress can impact anyone helping the masses during a traumatic event.
5. Being released from quarantine can lead to some mixed emotions that you may not be prepared for, fear being one of them (both from you and others around you). Know that there are resources available to provide support.
6. Don’t forget to connect with others. A strong support system and maintaining healthy relationships during this time provides mental and physical stability.
7. Seek help when needed. The current situation can affect us mentally, not just physically. Seek resources that can help sort through your concerns.
The guide in the link below provided by NAMI answers questions regarding the intersection between COVID-19 and people affected by mental illness, their caregivers and loved ones.
You see warning signs of mental health issues in your child, now what?
You see warning signs of mental health issues in your child, now what?
You see warning signs of mental health issues in your child, now what?
COVID - 19 has upended all our daily lives and routines and children are no exception. While some kids are on their way back to school this fall many are participating in virtual learning and each has contributed to a new kind of stress for both kids and parents/ caregivers.
It may be the stress of attending school with new precautions and the fear of potential COVID-19 exposure, or maybe the lack of social interaction that comes with remote learning, there are many reasons we are all mentally and emotionally impacted by this pandemic.
You saw warning signs of mental health issues in your child... now what?
NAMI North Texas has an incredible series of six seminars in their NAMI Basics online course that is designed for parents/ caregivers of children experiencing mental health challenges.
What are the goals?
● To give the parent/caregiver the fundamental information necessary to be an effective caregiver
● To help the parent/caregiver cope with the impact that emotional and behavioral difficulties have on the child and the entire family
● To provide tools for the parent/caregiver to use even after completing the program that will assist them in making the best decisions possible for the care of the child
● To help the parent/caregiver take the best care possible of the entire family – especially themselves
● Find a community of support
● Practical up-to-date information about mental health challenges
● Learn to effectively advocate for your child with the school and mental health systems
● Develop problem solving and communication skills
These are just a few of the ways that the course is designed to help you better understand what your child is experiencing and start to employ effective mechanisms to help your child, you, and your family cope.
Posts
How to start the mental health conversation
How to start the mental health conversation
How to start the mental health conversation
Mental health is a topic in many households that still falls under the stigma of not okay to bring up. While so many organizations are working diligently to change that perspective what can you do when you'd like to have a conversation around mental health but don't know where to start?
One of the easiest ways to signal that you're open to discussing mental health is by bringing up your own, it shows you're open to talking about mental health without judgement. Not as comfortable sharing your own mental health status? Start by expressing how much you care for your friend/loved one and share your observations.
The American Foundation for Suicide Prevention has several resources for how to begin a conversation on mental health with a friend or loved one and examples of what you can say to approach them in a caring, constructive way. Check out the full article below.
Three Words for everyday
How to start the mental health conversation
How to start the mental health conversation
Let’s talk three words. My life has been impacted personally by loved ones struggling with mental health, but three words can be so powerful used in other contexts. Three words can encourage someone to go after their dreams, lift up one another in the workplace, and foster a sense of community. Three words can help everyone, not just those with mental illness, what three words can you say to someone today that will encourage a positive action in their life?
You’re doing great!
You inspire me!
Social Isolation & Suicide
How to start the mental health conversation
Coping with the loss of a family member
Suicide is now the 10th biggest cause of death in the US and studies show two of the characteristics often found in those who choose suicide is isolation and loneliness. People who have social interaction and the opportunity to interact with others are at less of a risk for suicide. What can you do to help? Reach out and let someone know they’re not alone. Spend time with family, friends, and even new acquaintances; you never know who may be feeling lonely. Three words: Let’s hang out. You’re not alone.
Coping with the loss of a family member
Physical distancing vs social distancing
Coping with the loss of a family member
Earlier this summer, my son and I had the opportunity to speak with KERA about our personal experience coping with the loss of a family member. You can read the article here.
friendly Check Ins
Physical distancing vs social distancing
Physical distancing vs social distancing
Three words isn't just for that friend or family member who may be in a tough spot. Three words can help lift someone, motivate, or boost confidence every. single. day.
You are awesome!
Keep it up!
You're almost there!
Physical distancing vs social distancing
Physical distancing vs social distancing
Physical distancing vs social distancing
We need each other
SAD?
SAD?
SAD?
Spring and sunshine are right around the corner but for the last few weeks of Winter many are still dealing with symptoms of Seasonal Affective Disorder. This form of depression can be just as debilitating as others and supporting each other with Three Words of encouragement can go a long way in helping someone with SAD make it through the winter months.
You got this!