We can all agree that stress and anxiety abound in this time when there are so many unknowns. Since the World Health Organization called the Covid-19 viral disease a pandemic, many of us are practicing “social distancing” and this has already had an effect on our mental and emotional health. We are social beings and it will be difficult to keep away from one another. How can we remain connected as professionals, as parents, as spouses/significant others, as family, as friends, and as neighbors?
Here are some things for parents to remember in these upcoming weeks:
- Remember to model healthy coping for your children. Your kids are closely watching how you respond to this crisis. They are in-tune to your emotions. They’re looking to you to figure out how they should be feeling about this situation. So, if you are overwhelmed with stress and worry, they will be too. Don’t be afraid to share your feelings with your children while also letting them know that we all have within us many strengths and resources that help us cope with difficult times.
- Talk to your child about the virus in a calm way so that they are informed and thus less likely to worry.
Here is a great info graphic from the Children’s National Medical Center website to help you talk to your child about Novel Corona Virus:
And a video from Hackensack Meridian Health:
- Encourage your child to share their feelings and needs throughout this time of upheaval. Encourage older children to keep a journal of their experience.
- We may have a little extra time on our hands in the next few weeks. Take advantage and do the things that make you feel good. This goes for everyone, children and adults alike need down time and self-care! Here are some ideas: Read, Write/Journal, Squeeze a stress ball, go geocaching, connect with friends/family on video chats, play a videogame, play a family board game, take a nap, meditate, do yoga, go for a drive, listen to music, go outside for fresh air: walk, jog, or play, have a good laugh, do chores mindfully, draw, color, paint, watch TV/movies, catch up on continuing education, do schoolwork, get plenty of sleep, spend alone time with your spouse, eat healthy foods, drink plenty of water, cook or bake together, close your eyes and listen to your surroundings.
- Limit exposure to news and media. Read self-help books to bring yourself and your family some peace of mind. Suggestion for adults: “Wherever you go, there you are” By: Jon Kabat Zinn. Suggestion for children: “I Can Handle It” (Mindful Mantras), “A Handful of Quiet: Happiness in Four Pebbles” By: Thich Nat Hanh.
Lastly, stay safe and healthy everyone!!
Maria Nakhleh, MSW, LCSW is a bilingual psychotherapist in private practice, who works with adolescents and adults, individuals, couples, and families. Specializing in the treatment of anxiety, depression, trauma, life transitions, and perinatal mood disorders. Various treatment modalities utilized: psychodynamic therapy, trauma-focused treatment, cognitive behavioral approaches, and mindfulness.
The information and resources contained on this website are for informational purposes only and are not intended to assess, diagnose, or treat any medical and/or mental health disease or condition. The use of this website does not imply nor establish any type of therapist-client relationship. Furthermore, the information obtained from this site should not be considered a substitute for a thorough medical and/or mental health evaluation by an appropriately credentialed and licensed professional.
Maria Nakhleh, LCSW 