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ADDRESSING CHILDREN'S WORRIES ABOUT CORONAVIRUS
Addressing Students’ Worry & Anxiety about Coronavirus COVID-19
Children and teens react to anxiety and stress differently than adults. Some may react right away; others may show signs that they are having a difficult time much later.
Overhearing adult conversations about events happening in their communities, watching or reading the news can make them feel scared, confused, or anxious, in much the same way as adults. This is true even if they live far from where the outbreak is taking place and are at little or no risk of getting sick.
As parents/caregivers, the best way you can support their wellness and healing is by staying calm. Children will react to what you say and how you say it. Make yourself available to listen and talk. Let them know that adults at home and school are taking care of their health and safety. Pay attention to what children see or hear on television, radio or online. Consider reducing the amount of screen time focused on the Coronavirus. Too much information on one topic can lead to fear, worry, and anxiety.
- Understanding Anxiety in Children (in English and Español) Download PDF
- How Can I support Myself and My Child During Covid-19 Download Word Document
Below are some helpful articles on talking to your children about the Coronavirus Pandemic:
The National Child Traumatic Stress Network (NCTSN) Parent/Caregiver Guide to Helping Families Cope With the Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) https://www.nctsn.org/sites/default/files/resources/fact-sheet/outbreak_factsheet_1.pdf
Talking With Children:
Tips For Caregivers, Parents, And Teachers During Infectious Disease Outbreaks https://store.samhsa.gov/system/files/sma14-4886.pdfTalking to Kids about the Coronavirus https://childmind.org/article/talking-to-kids-about-the-coronavirus/
Further Resources https://docs.google.com/
document/d/1XZKQSYKZxOgKkhVh_ iWUTPOT-G7nJFdD1XObUJhyKB8/ edit?usp=sharing Tips for Online Learning Download PDF
Get Help
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If you or your child are having a difficult time coping with the outbreak and want to seek outside help, contact your medical provider or insurance or speak to a trained counselor to get support regarding your anxiety or stress:
- Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration Disaster Distress Helpline 1-800-985-5990
PUSD Mental Health Programs
The Pasadena Unified School District partners with the following mental health agencies who can provide support::
- D’Veal Family and Youth Services: (626) 296-8900
- Five Acres: (626) 993-3100
- Foothill Family: (626) 993-3000
- Hathaway-Sycamores Child and Family Services: (844) 222-2377
- Hillsides: (323) 254-2274
- Pacific Clinics: (877) 722-2737
- PUSD Mental Health Services : (626) 396-5920
- Young and Healthy: (626) 795-5166