Choose from the sample newsletter inserts below to share key messages with parents/families of secondary school students:
Coping with Stress and Anxiety
Feeling stressed and having anxiety can be common among teens. Some teens experience stress and/or become anxious or fearful about something for a day or two and are able to return to normal without any need for help from their parents. However, some teens experience more intense and frequent symptoms and feelings that prevent them from participating in normal everyday life. Creating a positive family environment, encouraging regular school attendance and helping your teen understand and discover ways to cope can help.
If you would like to learn more about understanding your teenager’s emotions and behaviours, ways to talk openly with your teenager and encouraging your teenager to practice their coping skills, call Health Connection at 705-721-7520 or 1-877-721-7520 and talk to a public health nurse.
Online parenting resources are also available:
School Mental Health Ontario (https://smho-smso.ca/)
Strong Minds Strong Kids (https://strongmindsstrongkids.org/)
Parent Self Care
As parents and caregivers, it is important that we take time to check in with ourselves.
When you are feeling stressed or overwhelmed, take time for yourself, even if it is just a few minutes. Working through your own feelings will make it easier for you to support and reassure your child.
Self-care does not need to be complicated. Take a few minutes to do something you enjoy, connect with a friend, or move your body. It is not selfish – it is self-preservation!
For more information, call Health Connection at 705-721-7520 or 1-877-721-7520 or visit www.simcoemuskokahealth.org.
Support Is Available
Parenting can be rewarding, but also challenging. You know your teen best. Don’t hesitate to reach out for help and support your loved one to access the services they need!
- School counselors/social workers: confidential support for academic, social and emotional concerns.
- Mental health resources: School Mental Health Ontario, Where to get help
- Community resources: 211 Ontario connects to social services, programs and community support
Looking for more support, visit SMDHU Mental Health page or call Health Connection at 705-721-7520 or 1-877-721-7520 to speak with a public health nurse.
Remember, you are not alone!
Building Their Resilience
You can help your teen become stronger and more resilient. Resilience is the ability to bounce back. By spending more time with your teen, you will help them build lifelong skills to cope with today’s challenges. Ways to connect with your teen:
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Show that you care by listening,
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Set boundaries and expectations,
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Encourage your teen to be involved at school and in the community
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Help with problem solving
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Encourage asking for help
Together, we can prepare and empower our teens to have a bright future!
For more information about the strengths teens need to succeed visit the Search Institute.
If you have any questions call Health Connection at 705-721-7520 or 1-877-721-7520 to speak with a public health nurse.
Creating a strong relationship with your teen
When life gets busy, look for ways to consistently connect with your teen:
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Express care: enjoy their company and show you care about what’s important to them.
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Challenge growth: encourage them to see their own potential and support them to do hard things.
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Provide support: guide and encourage to complete tasks and achieve goals.
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Share power: value their ideas and work together to solve problems.
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Expand possibilities: explore learning opportunities for them to grow.
One of the most impactful things you can do as a parent is to be present. Strong connections will lead to better school performance, stronger empathy, and lifelong skills including resilience for life’s difficulties.
Visit the Search Institute for more parenting support. Speak with a public health nurse by calling 705-721-7520 or 1-877-721-7520 or visit www.simcoemuskokahealth.org.