Support Yourself (From CDC)

"The outbreak of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) may be stressful for people. Fear and anxiety about a disease can be overwhelming and cause strong emotions in adults and children. Coping with stress will make you, the people you care about, and your community stronger. In order for you to support others, first you need to take care of yourself."

Things you can do to support yourself:

• Connect with others. Talk with people you trust about your concerns and how you are feeling. Maintain healthy relationships through calls and online to build a strong support system.

• Avoid too much exposure to the news- Hearing about the pandemic repeatedly can be upsetting. While it can help to stay informed and receive news updates from schools and officials, be sure that you also take breaks from the 24-7 news cycle.

• Take care of your body. Take deep breaths, stretch, or meditate. Try to do activities you enjoy. Try to eat healthy, well-balanced meals, exercise regularly, get plenty of sleep.

• Seek help when needed. If you, or someone you care about, are feeling overwhelmed with emotions like sadness, depression, or anxiety, or feel like you want to harm yourself or others call

• 911

• Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration’s (SAMHSA’s) Disaster Distress Helpline: 1-800-985-5990 or text TalkWithUs to 66746. (TTY 1-800-846-8517)

Supporting your Child (From CDC)

• Take time to talk with your child or teen about the COVID-19 outbreak.

• Reassure then that they are safe. Let them know it is okay if they feel upset. Share with them how you deal with your own stress so they can learn how to cope with you.

• Limit the exposure of news coverage of the event, including social media with your students.

• Try to establish a regular routine for your child (as best as you can), which will help them know what to expect each day (similar to school).

How children and teens respond to stress in the same way.

• Irritability and "acting out" behaviors in teens

• Difficulty with attention and concentration

• Excessive crying or irritation in younger children

• Returning to behaviors they have outgrown (for example, toileting accidents or bedwetting)

• Excessive worry or sadness

• Unhealthy eating or sleeping habits.

• Be a role model. Take breaks, get plenty of sleep, exercise, and eat well. Connect with your friends and family members.

Resources

• Helping children cope with emergencies