As our communities shelter at home to limit the spread of COVID-19, we can do many things to ensure our physical and emotional well-being. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention offer guidelines for managing stress. Here are some basic practices.
Exercise and eat well: Gyms are closed but we can continue to be active as long as we maintain social distance. Eat nutritious meals, sleep seven hours a night and maintain a consistent schedule.
Help out: Many members of our communities are highly vulnerable to the impacts of the novel coronavirus. Help others if only by offering reassurance and emotional support.
Limit news intake: It can be tempting to stay current on all new information. Instead, take breaks from media coverage. Use a few, authoritative news sources. Be wary of misinformation on social media. Your local schools provide key links to resources. Public health websites provide regular updates.
Social distancing, not social isolation: Connect with your loved ones, offer support, and when possible, assistance. Video chats, texting and audio calls can help keep personal relationships strong, maintain our perspectives and make us feel better.
Guide your children: Remember that children take their cues for reacting to the world from you. Watch for their distress, talk to them in an age-appropriate way, reassure them and help to set a calm environment. Create consistent schedules and incorporate time for learning, play and fun.
We understand this drastic change in everyday life poses significant challenges for all members of our community. If you or a loved one are experiencing anxiety or fear, know that resources are available for support and guidance.
- The Center for Integrated Family and Health Services provides telephone and telehealth (video conferencing) mental health services. Please call 626-967-5103 to request a therapist.
- The CA Peer-Run Warm Line is staffed 24/7 by peers with specialized training in supporting mental health challenges. The toll-free service can be reached at 855-845-7415. Web chat is available.
- Care Solace services are available at no cost to students, families and staff. A search algorithm matches individuals with mental health care resources within seconds. Care Solace generates referrals that take into account insurance policies, including private insurance, Medi-Cal, Medicaid and Medicare. If uninsured, Care Solace also identifies local care providers that allow individuals to pay out-of-pocket for services. The site does not require a username, home address, phone number or date of birth
- Additional school-based mental health agencies include:
- Children's Bureau -- 626-337-8811
- Foothill Family Services -- 626-993-3000
- Hillsides -- 626-373-2900
- Kaiser Permanente Educational Outreach Program (EOP) -- 626-814-6408
For more information, visit our Mental Health page.