Prior to Bridgeport High School’s online platform, the counselors, Kristina Robinson and Jenna Edwards, were working with students daily. They ensured college applications were filled out, scholarships were being pursued, transcripts were accurate, letters of recommendations were submitted and schedules were completed. Beyond their academic duties, however, their main focus was on helping students remain healthy mentally, managing stress and providing resources in order to help each student navigate their high school experience.  

 

With school now being taught through online portals, the counselors are more determined than ever to make sure students are connected, informed and able to handle the stress brought on by the pandemic.

 

“Like all of the staff, our first priority is always the students,” said Robinson.  “We work together to find ways to reduce their stress and give them tangible ways to adjust to this new normal.”

 

Although social distancing is necessary at this time, it can also exasperate mental health issues for some people. Robinson and Edwards immediately sent out resources to students and staff to help with some of the common issues faced when times are uncertain. Recognizing and validating feelings of fear, stress and anxiety, the counselors provided activities that could be done to give a sense of calm among the turbulence they are now facing.

 

“It’s important for students to be aware of how stress can affect their everyday lives and how it can manifest in many ways that may be unfamiliar,” said Edwards.  “Changes in sleep patterns, energy levels, appetite, and behavior can all be a result of depression and anxiety and can often affect how students feel about themselves and others. We want to make sure they are monitoring their mental and physical health while they are in isolation and to provide resources that can help them if needed.”

 

Research confirms that, along with the symptoms listed above, worrying excessively, apathy, irritability, and having trouble concentrating or engaging are among the behaviors that can arise when a significant change takes place.  For many, it’s hard to find a balance between work and fun or to give and receive help.  For some, it can affect decision making, motivation and self-worth.

 

“We encourage students to set limits in terms of how much social media and news they engage with daily and to make sure that they focus on what they can control,” said Robinson. “Physical health should be a priority as well, focusing on sleep, hydration, exercise and healthy eating so that they are in a place where they can best work on their mental health.”

 

The counselors suggest that students, staff and families try to find a healthy balance and to pay attention to any changes that occur mentally, physically and spiritually.  

 

“Each person entered into this time of social distancing with their own unique experiences and will view the events through that lens, giving different perspectives to an event that everyone is going through at the same time,” said Edwards.

 

It is suggested that students consider mindfulness exercises, learn breathing techniques, express gratitude and journal, with writing prompts given in the resources online.  They also emphasize the importance of connectivity, even as we practice social distancing.  The pandemic gives students an opportunity to find new ways to connect and to rediscover the value of simplicity and quiet.

 

The counselors have also been reaching out to students by phone to gage any issues that may arise with online schooling, scholarship season or other considerations during this unprecedented time.  Students can reach the counselors via email at krobinso@k12.wv.usor jenna.edwards@k12.wv.us.