05/12/2021
Do you work in a school? Please read on.
For the last year plus all of us have had to focus on our physical safety, disrupting our daily lives significantly. Teachers and administrators like yourselves have been asked to continue on in their jobs for the well-being of all of our children, sometimes even your own. This has meant drastically changing the way in which you conduct your work on a regular basis. As physical safety was being addressed you were simultaneously managing your own emotional well-being as well as that of your families AND students; some of you even lost family members. The demands have been high.
Emotional struggles throughout this past year are normal and if you have struggled you are not alone.
As we reopen and more and more people are vaccinated we can breathe a little easier relative to physical risk, however those of us in the mental health field are seeing a sharp increase in emotional distress. Many people are finding themselves ready and excited yet anxious and worried. It makes sense. Again, this is normal.
So what can you do?
There are a number of ways in which we can take back control over our stress and worry. Here are three quick and effective steps to begin moving toward a greater sense of calm.
1. Label your emotions. We often want to dismiss or distract from the “bad” emotions. This gives our emotions too much power. Label them so you can start to let go of them. Some emotions may be: worried, anxious, afraid, angry, sad, frustrated, grieving, hopeless and the list goes on and on...
2. Decide to take action. This is a very important step! Our commitment to change and take action is sometimes the hardest part. Do you ever find yourself venting to a friend about how sad or worried or frustrated you are and then not take action to change it? I think we all do at times. So commit now. You will be glad that you did.
3. Take action. Taking action can vary from choosing a tool (a book, a podcast, or the WORRYDeck) to having a conversation with a friend, therapist or coach.
YOU have the power within you to feel better and move yourself toward a greater sense of calm. And you are not alone!
Do you want to learn more about how to take control over your worry, support yourselves and your staff? Ask me how I am supporting school staff in straightforward, effective 1 hour workshops, either virtually or in person depending on location and preference.
Do you work in a corporate office rather a school? This workshop can be tailored for you and your employees as well. Please just ask.
Wishing each of you a sense of peace and calm as you wrap up this (dare I say, very long) school year!
