Feeling anxiety amid a global pandemic is normal and natural for everyone. As the adults, it’s critical that we take care of our own mental and physical health, and that will help us to better support our young people. The following resources offer guidance for self-care as well as strategies for talking about COVID-19 honestly and effectively with young people.

NYS COVID Emotional Support Hotline - 1-844-863-9314

Numerous resources for Talking to Children About COVID-19

Contact Your School Counselor

Self-Care for You and Your Family

Turn Off the TV and Talk

Help Your Children Cope with Changes

Recognizing Stress and Ways to Cope

ChildMind.org - Supporting Families During COVID-19

Elementary Level - Daniel Tiger Explains

Elementary - Elmo and Friends Teach Belly Breathing

Hotlines - Mental Health and Crisis Numbers

• Call 911 for immediate response
• 24/7 Crisis Hotline for children: Spectrum CARES - 882-4357
• 24/7 ECMC CPEP Psychiatric Emergency Room 462 Grider, Buffalo - 898-3465
• 24/7 Crisis Textline: Text HOME or MHA to 741 741
• Mental Health Advocates of WNY - 886-1242