CatholicCare Counsellor
How are you going?
Have you stopped to check in with yourself today?
At times like these it’s easy to get stressed and anxious. As parents, it's so important that we manage our own wellbeing so we can avoid parenting from overwhelming fear or stress.
What do Counsellors recommend during stressful and uncertain times like these?
We recommend checking in with yourself every morning (and in the evening too).
Acknowledge this is really tough (it is)! We are all feeling a bit wobbly and some will be feeling really wobbly. Just know that this is ok.
And if you are feeling a bit too stressed….
What have you done in the past that helps when you feel overwhelmed?
Do those things. Schedule in some extra fun, exercise, connection or other healthy stress busters as you need.
Below is a summary of some simple tips for coping with the current Covid situation….
- Ditch unrealistic expectations.
- Allow yourself to grieve the old normal.
- Focus on what you can do (rather than what you can’t).
- Keep a structure/routine in your day as best you can.
- Set a few simple daily goals for yourself and tick them off as you do them. For example- it might be knocking off a few chores or work tasks, going for a walk, cooking a nice meal, calling a friend -just getting a few things done and acknowledging it gives our brain a boost of dopamine- raising our spirits!
- Get good sleep.
- Eat healthily so your immune system is in good shape.
- Stay connected.
- Limit the amount of news you are exposed to (but do keep up to date with reputable Health updates from government health websites).
- Try mindfulness (get present)- this calms the brain and helps you come back to the here and now- rather than worrying about ‘what ifs’.
For more information see... https://www.smilingmind.com.au/;
https://www.uclahealth.org/marc/mindful-meditations;
https://www.calm.com/
- Look at this as an opportunity to strengthen and sweeten your family relationships- connect with quality time chatting, playing board games, reading, drawing and sharing device free time together.
- Focus on what is in your control i.e. your own health behaviours (follow the health advice).
- Remember our wonderful doctors and health experts are working hard to keep people safe and healthy.
So how do we parent our kids well during tough times? Firstly, by looking after yourself so you are in a good space to care for your children.
For more ideas there are some great parenting and kids resources online. Have a look at the resources links below..
From ‘Emerging Minds’-Supporting Children’s Mental Health during a Pandemic toolkit;
And a lovely E story book for kids…
https://www.apa.org/pubs/magination/kids-guide-coronavirus-ebook.pdf
Sharyn Lynch
Student and Family Counsellor
Catholic Care
