Wellness Resources
Mental Health Association in Tompkins County
Talking to Kids About the Coronavirus
Source: Child Mind Institute
“Many parents are wondering how to bring up the epidemic in a way that will be reassuring and not make kids more worried than they already may be. Here is some advice from the experts.”
A Guide for Parents and Caregivers recently released by the National Child Traumatic Stress Network (NCTSN) contains guidance to help family members cope with COVID-related stress.
Youth Wellness Recovery Action Plan ® (WRAP) is offering a 10-week online workshop series for young people ages 13-18. The program helps youth create their own plans to support their mental health journey, stay well, and prevent crisis situations. Find more information on the program here. To sign up email Melanie Little, Director of Education and Youth Services, at mlittle@mhaedu.org for registration information.
Ithaca Coach collective provides free life coaching during the COVID19 crisis. Read about the story in the Tompkins weekly.
Crisis-line
Calling for help when you are in emotional pain is smart. The Crisis-line offers free, confidential counseling 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. The trained and caring counselors are there to listen, support, and guide you.
esTo access the Crisis-line, call 1-800-273-TALK (1-800-273-8255). Click here to learn more about the Crisis-line.
Warm Line
To access the Warm Line, dial 607-273-0259. The Council is open from 9:00 a.m. until 4:30 p.m., Monday through Friday. Click here to learn more.
New Roots is helping the Child Development Council deliver baby supplies to families in need. If your family has experienced a loss of income or resources and needs help with baby supplies, please complete this online form to sign up for support. To learn more about the Child Development Council, visit childdevelopmentcouncil.org.
Taking Care of Your Mental Health in the Face of Uncertainty
Source: American Foundation for Suicide Prevention
“It’s important to note that we are not helpless in light of current news events…If you are struggling, here are some things you can do to take care of your mental health in the face of uncertainty.”
Care for Caregivers: Tips for Families and Educators
Source: National Association of School Psychologists
“Caregivers must take good care of themselves so they are able to take good care of the children in their charge.”
Physical Activity Resources: https://docs.google.com/document/d/1PeIpwLVPr11vi5RypFK0WbwsF3TIyx97l7dasVrS6XE/edit
NYS launched a new texting program and confidential service to help New Yorkers experiencing domestic violence. Unfortunately, there has been a rise in domestic violence reports during this pandemic. Abuse victims are often closely watched by their abuser, making these tools needed. You are not alone and you do not have to stay in a dangerous situation. There is help available: Text 844-997-2121 or visit www.opdv.ny.gov to confidentially chat with a professional at any time of day or night.
Mindfulness Apps
Headspace: New York State is partnering with Headspace, a global leader in mindfulness and meditation, to offer free meditation and mindfulness content for all New Yorkers as a mental health resource for residents coping with the unprecedented public health crisis. Visit headspace.com/ny to access a collection of science-backed, evidence-based guided meditations, along with at-home mindful workouts, sleep, and kids content to help address rising stress and anxiety.
Calm: We are also recommending an app called CALM, which has been researched and found to be effective in decreasing stress. The app has different sections such as sleep, anxiety, self-care etc. In each section there are free activities and some that can be purchased
.