Social and emotional well-being are critical to overall health. When schools support social and emotional well-being, students typically have fewer disciplinary issues, can focus more on school work, and can develop skills to communicate better. Being socially and emotionally well means being able to realise your abilities, cope with the normal stresses of life, work productively and contribute to your community.
The Collaborative for Academic, Social, and Emotional Learning has identified five core skills that are widely recognized as critical social-emotional skills:
Self-awareness is the ability to recognize your emotions and understand the links between emotions, thoughts and behaviors.
Self-managment is the ability to regulate emotions, thoughts and behaviors.
Social awareness is the ability to take other’s perspectives and demonstrate empathy.
Relationship skills are the ability to build and maintain healthy relationships.
Responsible decision making is the ability to make good choices about your behavior and interactions with others.
PARENTS - PLEASE REMEMBERS TO TAKE CARE OF YOURSELVES TOO. YOUR SOCIAL EMOTIONAL HEALTH MATTERS TOO CLICK THE BUTTON ON THE RIGHT FOR SELF CARE TIPS
During times of stress, it is normal to have questions or feelings that you struggle to make sense of on your own. It is important to remember that even when you feel lonely, you are not alone: There are plenty of places to get support, so bring your concerns to a trusted friend or adult. If you or someone you know is in need of support, please know the following resources are available to help:
Local and National Help Numbers and Hotlines
1-800-273-TALK (National Suicide Prevention Hotline)
1-845-391-1000 (Text-4-Teens: A Teen to Teen text support hotline)
1-888-750-2266 (Mobile Mental Health Hotline)
1-877-YOUTHLINE (968-8454) (Teen-to-Teen Counseling Hotline)
1 - 845- 485-9700 (Dutchess County Behavioral Health Services)
From the Suicide Prevention Center of NY
What every parent should know about youth suicide (PDF Handout) This brochure coaches parents on recognizing suicide risk in their child and how to navigate the conversations that will inform the next steps.
National Alliance on Mental Illness of NYS (information for educators, families, and teens). This website offers resources for mental health education and curriculum development in schools.
COPING Resources
Coping with a Disaster or Traumatic Event
NAMI: National Alliance on Mental Illness
CLICK ON THE LINK BELOW FOR 3 WEEKS OF MINDFULNESS ACVITITIES FOR CHILDREN IN GRADES K-2. DO SOME, DO ALL..ENJOY IT!!
Try these when you're feeling anxious or stressed:
Take a time-out. Practice yoga, listen to music, meditate, get a massage, or learn relaxation techniques. Stepping back from the problem helps clear your head.
Eat well-balanced meals.
Limit sugar and caffeine
Get enough sleep.
Exercise
Take deep breaths.
Count to 10 slowly.
Do your best.
Accept that you cannot control everything.
Welcome humor.
Maintain a positive attitude.
Get involved in an activity you enjoy.
Learn what triggers your anxiety.
Talk to someone.
Fitness Tips: Stay Healthy, Manage Stress
CHOOSE MINDFULNESS INSTEAD
Chronic Absenteeism