Ask MHED
One of our goals at MHED is to work to eradicate stigma. We believe the best way to do that is to keep the conversation going. If you have questions for our experts, please feel free to ask. We will do our best to answer every question.
Keep in mind – this site does not provide medical advice as it intended for informational purposes only. It is not a substitute for individual medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. If you think you have a medical emergency please call your doctor or dial 911.
How do I validate and then help my child manage their worries about the pandemic when I have the same ones?
The important thing to remember is that everyone is suffering from the strains and limitations imposed upon us by COVID 19. Life and all its usual patterns have been replaced by cancelations, postponements, substitutions and a whole lot of uncertainty. A few things to keep in mind is that everyone is struggling and these struggles should not be ranked or dismissed as unimportant. A few tips that can help:
- Sometimes just listen and do not try and give answers. Validate all feelings.
- When you do give answers, answer exactly what the child is asking and refrain from over-answering by giving too much information.
- Refrain from all day media feeds running in the house.
- Keep financial discussions between the adults.
- It is okay to say that you do not know but you will figure it out together.
What can I do when I feel lonely?
Everyone is feeling disconnected from their usual sources of socializations be it at school the office, the gym or even the neighbourhood park. If you are feeling isolated there are several things you can do:
- Phone a friend or book a meet up on Zoom. This is a great time re-connect with people you have not had time to speak with in a while.
- Join or start an online book group, yoga class, class, movie club or recipe exchange. There are many online platforms that allow you to zoom watch a movie together with a group, or play games together with friends (House party).
- Volunteer to help out an organization. Helping someone else makes you feel good and connects you will other like-minded people.
- Take a walk in your neighbourhood to connect with nature and to see that life goes on, even if it is different.