School Counsellors

Reducing Anxiety: Coronavirus (COVID-19) 

As a Registered Psychologist, a number of individuals in the community have asked me for tips to reduce anxiety around the coronavirus. I do not want to bombard you with heaps of information, so I have kept the following tips brief.

Limit media exposure

Frequent media exposure can heighten anxiety. Being with your child while they are watching or listening to the news can be helpful, especially when they have questions.  

Taking care of yourself

• Physically this includes exercising, eating, and sleeping well. 

• Mentally this includes practising mindfulness, relaxation, or prayer.

Modelling Calmness

Children and adolescents look up to role models such as their parents and teachers, for a range of things. This, in turn, influences their behaviour and how they react in different situations. Therefore, it is important for parents to remain calm when providing information and answering questions about the coronavirus.

If you have any concerns about your child and would like to arrange a meeting with myself or Andrew Hart (School Counsellor), please feel free to contact us at St John Paul College on (02) 6653 3155. Alternatively, both school counsellors can be contacted via email denise.andrade@lism.catholic.edu.au or andrew.hart@lism.catholic.edu.au.