COVID-19 Mental Health Resources
Posted on February 18
We understand this is a time of high anxiety for many. There is an overwhelming amount of information coming at us all. Northland School Division is here to support students, parents and community members. We have compiled mental health information from several sources.
It is normal for children to feel worried and nervous and have questions. You can support your children by reassuring them about their personal safety and health:
- Limit their access to news and online stories about the issue.
- Maintain a normal routine unless otherwise advised by an authority.
- Encourage them to talk to you about their concerns.
- Reassure them they are safe. This is a child-friendly video on COVID-19.
- Talking to Kids About Coronavirus (COVID-19)
Advise them of steps they can take to stay healthy:
- Wash hands regularly with soap and water for at least 20 seconds (sing the ABC’s to measure time), especially after coughing or sneezing.
- Cough and sneeze into arm or tissue.
- Stay home if they are not feeling well.
- Keep hands away from face and mouth.
- Stay healthy by eating healthy foods, keeping physically active, and getting enough sleep.
Alberta Health Services (AHS) Resources for Families
AHS: Coping and Connection with Families During COVID-19
AHS: North Zone Addiction and Mental Health Services
AHS - Take charge of what you can: A COVID-19 toolkit
AHS - Caregiver Handout Regarding COVID 19 CYF Caregiver Education Trauma
AHS - Caregiver Resource List COVID 19 Version
AHS - COVID -19 and Your Mental Health
AHS - Mental Health: Coping and Connection for Children and Families During COVID-19
AHS - Practical and Emotional Preparedness for a Pandemic
AHS - Help in Tough Times, We’re here in tough times
Additional Resources for Families
Health Canada has funded a program called Wellness Together Canada that will provide anyone in Canada with free, immediate mental health and substance use support. To access the service, visit the website https://ca.portal.gs/.
Hope for Wellness Help Line offers immediate mental health counselling and crisis intervention to all Indigenous peoples across Canada 24/7. Visit them online or call 1-855-242-3310
TeenMentalHealth.Org - Stress Explained Elementary Edition (August 2020)
TeenMentalHealth.Org - Stress Explained Junior and Senior High School Edition (May 1, 2020)
TeenMentalHealth.Org - Resources and Tips During COVID-19
World Health Organization - Mental Health Considerations during COVID-19 Outbreak
Stress Management: Relaxing Your Mind and Body
National Child Traumatic Stress Network Advice
Your Mental Health Canada - How to look after your mental health during a time of uncertainty
PSP Gagetown Mental Fitness Apps
Moving Minds - At-Home Activities & Resources
Canadian Red Cross- Psychosocial First Aid Pocket Guide
Understanding Screen Addiction and Responsible Digital Use
Resources for Employees and Dependants
We are concerned about the welfare of all of our staff and want to remind you that support and counselling services are available through our Employee and Family Assistance Program provider Homewood Health. They can be contacted at 1-800-663-1142 or visit the Northland School Division website for more information http://nsd61.ca/information-for-staff/employee-and-family-assistance-program.
Additional Resources for Employees
Resources for K-12 Staff Teaching and Working through the COVID-19 Pandemic
(MORE) Mental Health Online Resources for Educators
TeenMentalHealth.Org - Alberta Mental Health Literacy Project
Quelling COVID-19 Anxiety (EN/FR)
How to Stay Productive & Motivated Working from Home
Online CBT (Cognitive Behavioural Therapy) for the Treatment of Depression and/or Anxiety