COVID-19 is having a significant impact on how our tamariki interact with others, go about their lives and their studies. Stress combined with uncertainty can have significant and wide-reaching impacts on their mental wellbeing.

It is completely normal for tamariki to feel sad, distressed, worried, confused, anxious or even angry during this time.  

In order to support our students and their families as best we can, we have compiled a few resources that may help our tamariki and their families better manage during these uncertain times.

Every Day Do's:

1. Maintain a daily routine with consistent sleep, activity and study patterns.
2. Stay connected with others, and try to find moments of humour.
3. Talk to people you feel comfortable with about your feelings or worries, then give yourself permission to stop worrying.
4. Eat breakfast every morning, plus snacks and meals at regular times throughout the day.
5. Limit coffee or energy drinks, as these will increase feelings of anxiety and make it difficult to relax.
6. Incorporate physical activity each day; regular aerobic exercise (e.g., walk, jog, yoga, dance) will do wonders.
7. Limit the amount of time you spend talking about or watching/listening to news media or social media.
8. Do hobbies or activities that you enjoy that calm you down or focus your mind and body. 
9. Be kind to yourself and each other. We’ll work through this together.

FACE COVID

The short video below outlines a simply strategy called F.A.C.E. COVID, which is great tool in helping deal with feelings of anxiety.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?feature=youtu.be&v=BmvNCdpHUYM&app=desktop

FOUR EASY RULES FOR NAVIGATING ISOLATION:

These apps and websites may provide useful information, resources and support:

https://www.justathought.co.nz/

https://mentalhealth.org.nz/getting-through-together

https://mentalhealth.org.nz/me-time/in-lockdown-alone

https://www.allright.org.nz/campaigns/getting-through-together