COVID-19 has brought on big changes to everyday life. Many children in the South Jersey area will not be returning to classes in person this Fall due to the pandemic. Many parents are now scrambling and struggling as they find themselves in the new role of “teacher.” If you are a parent or grandparent, you may be feeling anxiety and frustration due to the lack of tools and resources provided to assist your child with their homeschooling or online classes. Dealing with this unexpected challenge can seem overwhelming and stressful. It is important to find balance during this time so you can help your child progress in their schoolwork and maintain a self-care routine. Managing your mental health during online learning is a key component in providing students with the quality of education they need.

Harmony Bay Wellness can offer some tips for managing mental health while trying to navigate homeschooling and/or online learning from home.

Online Learning Requires Staying Connected with Teachers

Teachers understand your frustration during this time and are just as worried about your child’s success as you are. If you are feeling overwhelmed or need advice on how to home school your child, reach out to their teacher. Scheduling time to meet with their teacher will help you gain a better understanding of their expectations. Teachers will more than likely be happy to share tips and tricks on how you can create a learning environment your child can excel in.

Relax Your Standards

If you are a parent who is trying to balance remote work and homeschooling, your house may seem chaotic at times. Trying to help your child and complete your work projects on time is a big task that is not always possible to do. It is important to let go of any standards that keep you feeling like you are falling short as a parent. Remember, you are not a teacher, but rather a parent who is trying their best to help their kids learn from home during a national crisis. Reach out to your supervisor if you are struggling to complete your projects while homeschooling. You most likely will find that coworkers are experiencing the same thing. Even in challenging times, there is always an opportunity to be grateful. Remember, the pandemic is temporary.

Create Structure for Online Learning

Structured days are important for both you and your child to excel. Stick to your routine as much as possible. Eat lunch at the same time every day, wake up, and go to bed at the same time. Keeping a set schedule is a good way to reduce anxiety symptoms during stressful and uncertain times. Sit down as a family and come up with a plan that works best for both you and your children. As a parent, listen to your child to help them do their best with the homeschooling plan the teacher provided—check-in with your child as needed and add in fun activities and exercise throughout the day.

Take It Easy on Yourself

Not every parent has the time and resources to homeschool their child. Try not to compare yourself to other families. To maintain your mental health, set time aside for yourself, and do not be afraid to take breaks or ask for help. If you are feeling overwhelmed with anxiety, some things you can do is exercise, read a book, meditate, listen to music, or take up a new hobby.

Mental Health Treatment at Harmony Bay Wellness

Often, we just need to ask for help. If you are struggling with your mental wellbeing during this time, don’t suffer in silence. At Harmony Bay Wellness in South Jersey, we understand that COVID-19 has caused anxiety among parents. If you are feeling overwhelmed, seek anxiety treatment today. Our licensed therapists can help you learn to manage your anxiety so that you can work more efficiently from home. Reach out to Harmony Bay Wellness today [Direct].