It feels like the hard bit is over. We’ve made our way over the mountain that is Coronavirus and are now walking, albeit slowly, to an easing of lock down and to freedom. But in the back of our minds, we are all still aware of the risks, the increasing R rate, and the dangers of this unseen enemy. If our anxiety is high, it is normal that our children and all young people are also worried and anxious. What does the new normal look like? How can I protect myself? What if?
The most important and precious thing that we all have at the moment is time, and this is crucial to helping young people cope with the new normal and their anxieties. So firstly, stop, think, deep breathe, and calmly reflect on the things you can control. Secondly, focus on what you can do to protect yourself and your friends. If you’re doing all you can, social distancing and not going out where possible, then that’s great. If you’re not, then what can you change to minimise any risks.
Talk to your child about their anxieties and what the new normal looks like. Explain that these measures are there to support and protect us, and we should not be scared by them.
Do fun things together to laugh and disperse anxiety and worry. Encourage your child to focus on the positive actions they can take and limit time on social media or listening to conversations about the virus.
And most importantly, love them, reassure them and make them feel valued. If you do, they will share their worries and feel unburdened. As individuals, we may not be able to solve the world’s problems, but we can support our families to look after themselves and start to feel better.
Handy Tips
1 Stop, breathe, meditate
2 Think of the positives and what you can do to make a difference
3 Talk
4 Laugh and do fun things
5 Limit social media
6 Love each other, listen and be kind
I am proud that, in true Rye spirit, as a community, we have embraced Home Schooling and have taught 100% of our lessons virtually. This means that our students have had a rich learning experience despite not being in school – I am blown away by the work that has been produced and the progress made. I felt passionately that we should deliver this level of learning and engagement to try to maintain routine and regular engagement with familiar faces (teachers and friends alike) – two incredibly key factors in positive mental health for our young people who are so used to being in a thriving and supportive school community for five days a week. Now, as we start to get back to some normality and anxiety might creep up because restrictions are easing, I am highlighting once again that if any member of our school community requires support, guidance, or resources to help with mental health we are here – subject teachers, tutors, leadership – to give you the continued support you need. I ask you to simply get in touch, and we can help.
Be Well Do Well.
Links
https://www.headstogether.org.uk/
https://www.mind.org.uk/information-support/for-children-and-young-people/
