The holiday season is undoubtedly a time of joy and celebration, filled with festivities, good food and cherished moments with family and friends. However, this time of year can also bring about stress and challenges. While staff will also take some much-deserved time off over the winter break, IUSD offers a variety of resources to help support our students and families during the holiday season with a focus on self-care and community connections.
Practice Self-Care
Amidst the hustle and bustle of holiday preparations, it's crucial to prioritize self-care. Self-care is a deliberate and daily practice aimed at caring for our mental, physical and emotional well-being. The first step in this journey is to identify your personal needs. Take a moment to ask yourself, "What do I need?"
Whether it's rest, exercise, time spent outdoors, or moments of solitude, recognizing and addressing your needs is key. For parents, it's easy to get caught up in caring for children and overlook personal well-being. However, it's essential to remember that by caring for ourselves, we are better equipped to care for our loved ones.
Engage in activities that cater to different aspects of your well-being. Read books, learn new things, create art, solve puzzles or take breaks to refresh your mind. Prioritize a healthy diet, stay hydrated, exercise, get ample sleep and practice deep breathing for physical well-being. To uplift your spirits, spend time in nature, dance, sing, help others or practice mindfulness. Nourish your heart by connecting with pets, spending time with friends and family, and simply having fun.
Staying Connected
The holidays emphasize the importance of staying connected to friends and family. Maintaining these connections is not only a source of joy but also vital for mental health. Reach out to loved ones through calls, texts or in-person gatherings. Share your experiences and feelings, and be open to listening to others. The support of a strong social network can make a significant difference during this season.
IUSD Resources
If needed this winter break, please visit our Mental Health and Counseling web pages. Both sites provide mental health and wellness resources and links to community services, including Care Solace, a free and confidential service that connects families to outside mental health services. These sites also include information about the Say Something Anonymous Reporting System, the 988 crisis text and phone lines, and academic services such as Paper, which is a free 24/7 online tutoring service that may be helpful for students after the winter break when studies resume.
Community Resources
The City of Irvine also provides valuable resources to support families during the holidays. The city offers services through Childcare and Development. Explore classes and activities through Inside Irvine and discover the various camps available.
As the holiday season nears, we encourage you to prioritize self-care and stay connected with our community. The combination of personal well-being practices and community support ensures we can navigate the festive season with resilience and joy.
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