MYTH Declassified
Quarantine Survival Guide
We are all witnessing history together as we attempt to stay safe, healthy and connected in the midst of a global pandemic. Our mission and vision is now more pertinent than ever as we fight to ensure that our youth and adolescents are maintaining positive mental health in a worldwide crisis.
As they are spending a lot of time at home and away from school with peers, it is vital that youth & adolescents feel a sense of belonging, purpose, and connection to a community. This highlights the importance of supportive interpersonal exchanges at home that can assist them in times of need.
We have provided an array of suggestions for activities that promote well-being and positive coping skills for mental health.
Dear, Parents
CONNECTING WITH YOUR CHILD
Surfing social media, playing games or watching t.v. can get quite redundant. Because of this, we have provided fun, diverse activities and tips that can help bring a fresh atmosphere into the lives of our youth. Although this pandemic can bring up many feelings and emotions that youth and adolescents may not be able to vocalize, it is a great time and opportunity to connect with them.
CHECKING THEIR MENTAL HEALTH
Consider their communication and interacions:
Are they checking up on people?
It is normal for youth to slightly withdraw from parents to spend time playing with their friends. Transitioning to online schooling can be shocking. Consider asking them how the change makes them feel. Do they like the change? How do they feel about learning right now?
Signs of lower mental health are associated with less concentration and motivation. When checking up on them, pay attention to tone and nonverbal cues. Always listen non judgmentally! Be willing to help them express themselves, emotions can be difficult to communicate.
Check on their long-term moods. It is okay to be sad, but prolonged periods of sad moods can be looked into.
POSITIVE AFFIRMATIONS FOR YOUR CHILD
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You’ve done such a great job!
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I believe in you.
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I’m so proud of you.
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We are grateful to have you in our family. I appreciate you.
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You are one of a kind!
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I love to see you smile.
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You are important.
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You are strong.
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You are powerful.
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You are a leader.
Dear Students,
Your feelings may be all over the place. We want you to know that you are not alone.
If you miss your friends... Send them a card/ Write a letter. Call, email, FaceTime or schedule a zoom call with them. Play games online with them. Watch the same show or read the same book and then discuss it!
5 Things to Remember:
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Be kind to yourself
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Everything can and will change
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You’ve overcome challenges before
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The negativity of others isn’t worth worrying about
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There is always, always, always, always something to be thankful for!
Make A List!
During this time making lists may help to consolidate your thoughts and often “offload” the thoughts that are crowding you. Grab an empty notebook, make a journal, or even use a journaling app in your AppStore!
Some Lists to Create:
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Your favorite songs, movies and books
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People you have helped
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Important goals you’ve achieved
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Money-making ideas to try
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Skills you would like to try
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The best compliments you've received
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Gifts you would like to give to others
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Ideas for stepping out of your comfort zone
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Things that you are hopeful for
Things to Keep in Mind
What I Can Control:
My words
My actions
My behavior How I respond My efforts
My feelings
My dream/vision
What I Can't Control:
The weather
Decisions that are made by my parents for my safety and well-being
Other people’s feelings, actions, or behavior
How people feel about you
From the MYTH Program, with love
MYTH envisions a climate of mental wellness amongst youth & teens as it is an essential part of one's overall well-being, Our mission is to provide mentorship, youth empowerment, and guidance to students while bringing awareness to mental health!
“You must learn a new way to think before you can master a new way to be.”
-Marianne Williamson