Navigating the Stresses of COVID-19

May 21, 2020

COVID-19 can be stressful for families – We turn on the TV, flip through Facebook posts, and have 24/7 access to news coverage that may trigger concern causing fear and anxiety and a general sense of uncertainty. Although people respond to stressful situations in different ways, taking steps to care for yourself and your family can help manage stress and gain coping skills.

Families may be struggling to cope with uncertainty, social isolation, and changing family dynamics that have evolved in this new normal. Without support, this may seem overwhelming but luckily there are things you can do to lessen the stresses of COVID-19 and strengthen your family.

Recognize where you need support. One thing you can do is to identify the emotional and mental challenges you are currently facing. Writing out a list of your strengths and challenges will help you become aware of them, normalize them, and allow you to be more mindful and compassionate with yourself and your family.

Create a routine. Families can also focus on creating a schedule and structure for their household. Continuing with regular routines allows families to have some normalcy, focus, and balance.

Take breaks from the news. Pandemic related news stories and social posts can negatively affect you. By unplugging you can have time and space to focus on your family.

Connect with others. Connection platforms such as Zoom, FaceTime, and Messenger can be helpful for those who want to stay connected to the loved ones they cannot currently see. Allow your children to make cards, mail letters, and connect with their friends, teachers, grandparents, etc. Staying connected with your loved ones and your support system and talking to them about your concerns can help you gain perspective and feel supported

Ask for help. Sometimes life’s challenges are too much to handle. There are community support systems available for those who need help. Together we can offer hope and healing from the impact of COVID-19 to families. Children’s Advantage has a team of committed, highly trained, and supportive clinical staff ready to support your family in processing the impact of COVID-19 and help build coping skills for families. In addition we are dedicated to supporting the special concerns and fears of the children and family members of essential workers, medical and behavioral health providers and essential workers, medical and behavioral health providers, and first responders.  while they continue to provide their heroic, vital services to our communities. Children’s Advantage has immediate telehealth appointments available, please call our office at (330) 296-5552.