The holiday season can undoubtedly be a time of joy and celebration, but it can also be a time of stress and challenges. While staff will enjoy some well-deserved time off, the Irvine Unified School District (IUSD) would like to share reminders and resources to support students and families throughout the winter break.
IUSD and Community 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 and Hazel Health, which provide or connect students with Mental Health and Wellness professionals for free. These web pages also include information about the Say Something Anonymous Reporting System, the 988 crisis text and phone lines, and academic services such as Paper Tutoring, a free 24/7 online tutoring service that may be helpful for students after the winter break when studies resume.
The City of Irvine provides additional support, including childcare services, camps and community activities through Inside Irvine.
Practice Self-Care
Amid holiday activities, try to prioritize self-care to support your mental, physical and emotional well-being. The first step can be to identify your needs such as rest, exercise, solitude or time outdoors. It’s important to make time for activities that recharge you. 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.
Additionally, self-care can look like:
- Engaging in activities such as reading, creating art, or spending time in nature.
- Maintaining a healthy diet, stay hydrated, and get enough rest.
- Practicing mindfulness and deep breathing.
- Connecting with loved ones to uplift your spirits.
Staying Connected
The holidays emphasize the importance of staying connected to friends and family. Maintaining these connections is a source of joy and 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.
We hope all our students and families have a happy and healthy holiday season. We look forward to seeing our students back on campus in the New Year!