In their latest “Mental Health During COVID-19” session, Dr. Carson Felkel, system medical director behavioral health, and Dr. Aimee Drescher, a clinical psychologist in the Toledo market, discuss what to do when kids are struggling in the classroom or with at-home learning. They also go over signs that might indicate the need for a referral to a mental health professional.
Watch the fourth video here:
Watch other videos from this series here:
Additionally, this week Dr. Felkel and Dr. Drescher wanted to share the following “Top 10 Tips for Parents & Caregivers during the COVID-19 Pandemic.” They are from Ohio’s Early Childhood Mental Health initiative, a program within the state’s Department of Mental Health and Addiction Services.
- Children look to adults for guidance, so keep your own stress in check to help manage their worries.
- Encourage kids to ask questions about their fears, this gives you a chance to provide age-appropriate information.
- Teach children about COVID-19 prevention actions, such as washing hands and covering coughs, as this will help give them a sense of control.
- Routine and structure are helpful for children, involve them in the process of making their daily schedule.
- Have your child stay connected with their family and friends by writing letters, making crafts or utilizing video chats.
- Spend time as a family playing games, reading and staying physically active while at home.
- Make sure your children are using the web responsibly, monitor their social media use and screen time specifically.
- Teach your kids about the importance of self-care, create time for daily mindfulness activities such as yoga and meditation.
- Be there for your kids emotionally, reassure them that this pandemic lifestyle won’t go on forever.
- Don’t panic, instead empower your family with facts and monitor your community’s ongoing COVID-19
Learn more about our behavioral health services and find a Mercy Health provider near you.
