CMHA Youth Smart – Tips for Helping Children and Youth Cope Through the Covid-19 Pandemic http://www.youthsmart.ca/tips-for-helping-children-and-youth-cope-effectively-through-the-covid-19-pandemic/ As COVID-19 continues to escalate in Canada, children and youth are likely starting to ask some difficult questions. With school closures and major changes in daily routines, parents and guardians are working hard to care for both the physical and mental health of the children they love. Young people often respond to big life changes and world events based on the reactions of the adults around them. As such, it is key for those adults to approach COVID-19 with a reassuring sense of calm. Here are some helpful tips for emotionally supporting children and youth through the ongoing pandemic:
Talking to Kids about Coronavirus: ASL & English Resources https://deafchildren.org/2020/03/talking-to-kids-about-coronavirus-asl-english-resources/ Children may worry about how the situation will affect them – and you. Here are some resources from trusted sources, both in English and ASL, to help you get the information you need to have open, informative, and comforting conversations with your child.
HERE Meditation https://www.hereglobalrelief.org The HERE mobile app is designed to help rapidly relieve stress & anxiety. It works by pairing interactive exercises (staring/swiping), with breathing, music and/or guided meditation to stimulate the relaxation response and promote executive functioning. This game-like approach can be used by the whole family, and may help calm cabin fever, or provide a mental break in between homeschool activities. The mobile app is entirely free and accessible for iOS and Android users
How teenagers can protect their mental health during coronavirus (COVID-19) https://www.unicef.org/coronavirus/how-teenagers-can-protect-their-mental-health-during-coronavirus-covid-19 Being a teenager is difficult no matter what, and the coronavirus disease (COVID-19) is making it even harder. With school closures and cancelled events, many teens are missing out on some of the biggest moments of their young lives — as well as everyday moments like chatting with friends and participating in class. For teenagers facing life changes due to the outbreak who are feeling anxious, isolated and disappointed, know this: you are not alone.
Headspace https://www.headspace.com Mindfulness for your everyday life. Stress less. Move more. Sleep soundly. Hundreds of articles for any mind, any mood, any goal. Talking to Kids About the Coronavirus Kids worry more when they're kept in the dark https://childmind.org/article/talking-to-kids-about-the-coronavirus/ Many parents are wondering how to bring up the epidemic in a way that will be reassuring and not make kids more worried than they already may be. Here is some advice from the experts at the Child Mind Institute.
Important Phone Numbers RCMP 911 780-962-2222 Spruce Grove 24 hours 780-968-7267 Stony Plain 24 hours
Kids Help Phone 1-800-668-6868 Text CONNECT 686868 kidshelpphone.ca/what-is-kids-help-phone 24-hour, anonymous phone counseling for children and youth, 100% confidential they do not trace calls, they do not have call display, you do not have to tell them your name. You can connect by phone or mobile app, or through the website.
Translifeline http://www.translifeline.org The Hotline: US: 1-877-565-8860 Canada: 1-877-330-6366 Need to talk? Call! Our peer support hotline is run by and for trans people.
211 Alberta https://www.ab.211.ca 211 (phone) 211(text) Resources for Albertans daily needs.
Health Information and ToolsCanadian Mental Health Association-Edmonton https://edmonton.cmha.ca 24 hour distress line: (780) 482-4357 When you see someone in distress, you can help before police or emergency services are needed by calling 211 and pressing 3 to dispatch the 24/7 Crisis Diversion Team.
Tips for Mental Health and Wellness (still in Taking care of you folder)
Practice brief relaxation techniques during the day. Check in with friends, family, and chosen family. Prepare for changes in your life. Increase leisure activities, stress management, and exercise. Pay attention to health and nutrition. Maintain boundaries. Say no, avoid getting overloaded. Practice good sleep routines. (don’t look at your phone at night) Find things that you enjoy or make you laugh. Seek help if extreme stress persists for greater than two to three weeks. Keep a journal to get worries off your mind. Access support from friends by sharing concerns. Stay aware of limitations and needs. Increase activities that are positive. Learn how to “put stress away” Write, draw, paint. Limit caffeine and substance use. Write in a journal. Volunteer for a cause meaningful to you. Make a gratitude list. Take a fresh air break. Meditate or listen to guided visualization. Cuddle with pets. Treat yourself to a nice meal. Take a nap. Listen to music. Practice yoga. Lay in the grass. Photography. Read a good book. Spend time outdoors, if possible. Go for a drive. Exercise. Join an online social club. Nutrition – increase healthy food choices. Turn off electronic devices. Have a movie marathon Play a game. Dance. Wear something that makes you feel confident. Join an online support group. Have a virtual game night with friends. Work in the garden. Drink some hot chocolate (with marshmallows). Get creative: draw, paint, write a song, or cook a new meal. Try a new hobby. Write yourself a letter. Creative arts. Spend time with your children – read to them, listen to their laughter, play with them, etc. Create a poster with images of a positive vision. Listen to enjoyable podcasts or videos. *adapted from MHFA Self Care and Resiliency Guide