Students and Families,

I hope you are staying safe and well. I wanted to reach out and let you know how social work services can continue while we are out of school. I will be available by email and can set up times to talk via phone or video chat. Appointments would likely be from 9AM-12noon Monday through Friday for 20-30 minutes. We can use whatever format you are comfortable with (Google Hangout, FaceTime, etc.) You can schedule an appointment by emailing me at rouffl@dearbornschools.org. 

Please remember the importance of taking care of yourself! Below are some tips:

  • Avoid excessive exposure to media coverage of COVID-19.
  • Take breaks from watching, reading, or listening to news stories. It can be upsetting to hear and see images repeatedly. Try to do some other activities you enjoy to instill a sense of normalcy.
  • Connect with others. Share your concerns and how you are feeling with a good friend or family member. Maintain healthy relationships and limit time on social media.
  • Maintain a daily schedule and eat healthy.
  • Maintain a sense of hope and positive thinking. Try to stay in the present.

These techniques may help if you are feeling anxious:

  • Use deep breathing and challenge your thoughts to reduce stress (see attached handout).
  • Include relaxation techniques like progressive muscle relaxation or guided imagery. 
  • Go for a walk, jog, dance, stretch, run up stairs.
  • Pick up a journal or sketchbook where you can express your emotions through writing or drawing.
  • Make a fidget ball by filling a balloon with rice or flour to reduce anxiety. Take a pipe cleaner and wrap around an unsharpened pencil or popsicle stick. 

These free apps may be useful: Relax Melodies, What’s Up, Breathe, Shine, Simple Habit, Calm and Mindfulness.

Be in touch, and let me know if you need anything at all. If you feel a friend needs support please share this note with them.

Thinking of you all,

Ms. Rouff