Weekly Five: Tips for Managing Stress

IUSD Weekly Five Managing Stress

Now more than ever, during uncertain and stressful times, it’s important to manage anxiety and stress, practice self-care and keep up with healthy habits. Making a small change can positively impact your health and wellbeing. 

  1. Check-in. Take a moment to check-in with children, family and friends.  Find ways to reach out for support or to be there for others. The simple action of reaching out can make a difference.  For tips on how to talk with children about difficult situations go to iusd.org/WeCare.

  2. Develop coping strategies. Take breaks from watching the news, exercise, eat healthy, get plenty of sleep and try deep breathing techniques to relax. Find more tips and tools at iusd.org/WeCare.

  3. Cultivate optimism. During challenging times, it is critical to develop resiliency and optimism through positive habits such as mindfulness, gratitude, journaling and more.  To learn more about the benefits and science behind optimism, visit iusd.org/OptimisticHousehold.  

  4. Access IUSD resources. Our staff is here to support our students and families.  For more information about mental health and wellness resources, including staff contacts by school site, services, tips for coping with stress and more. Visit iusd.org/WeCare or iusd.org/COVID19.

  5. Community Resources. Look into community mental health and wellness resources though your regular mental health provider or visit iusd.org/WeCare for connections to community resources.

Your voice matters, you are not alone and we are here for you.  Please reach out if you need support.