Mental Health For Virtual Learning Students

The mental health struggles of children during remote learning don't stem from the "virtual classroom."

It is the change in routine, the lack of physical contact and socialization with friends, the missed play opportunities.

#afspnational shared this on IG. Take a look as the advice is powerful.

1. Self care- kiddos feel energy, and if home energy is stressful, kids will embody the stress, yet they don't understand what they're feeling and may display it in harmful or negative ways. Children also copy what is modeled for them, so if parents are not caring for themselves, neither will kiddos.

2. Communication- open and clear communication about health and feelings. #kidscanunderstandtheirfeelings

3. Routine- Preach! Routine and consistency is so beneficial and helpful to ALL!L

4. Limit media- Kids are KIDS. They don't need to know everything that is going on. Filter what kiddos are exposed to. It may be more traumatizing to their little minds than we realize.

5. There are safe ways to connect and contact with others. Be smart about it but keep that socialization happening!

6. Get active When it's break time or the day is done, close the computer. Don't get the video games going, don't turn on Netflix. GO OUTSIDE! Play an indoor active game if it's cold. Break out the old hands on toys and allow creativity and creation.

Learn more at afsp.org/signs

Chelsea YeagerJanuary 30, 2021

My name is Lisa Yeager, I am George’s mom and the founder of GBY3 Foundation. George’s life was an amazing adventure that became a wild roller coaster ride due to mental illness. Our family attempted to educate ourselves as much as possible in order to help and support George in his struggles. In the 18 months since his passing while grieving and planning this foundation, the one thing that stands out more than anything is the need for education among students and erasing the stigma that surrounds mental health issues. Young people need to know it is OK to ask for someone to talk to. Adults need to listen with empathy and understanding. Looking to end your life is not a solution to any problem, neither is hurting yourself. My hope is to begin a nationwide conversation that puts our young people at ease with their social emotional health and encourages them to explore resources including counseling, therapy, self help, physicians and music and art therapy as well as yoga and meditation for self care.

In years to come we hope to influence change in the healthcare system for mental health patients to meet their needs in all health arenas and help prevent homelessness. The entire health and well being of the patient must be addressed and not dictated by lack of insurance or inconsistencies in government systems and health institutions.

It’s OK to not be OK…