It is completely normal for families to feel heightened during these times of uncertainty. Your family may have dealt with testing times before, but this is likely to be a new experience completely. With heightened anxiety, emotions such as anger or frustration may grow. When experiencing negative emotions try and stay mindful of your responses. Communication is key. It is important to be clear with each other and express how you are feeling. Of course, this does not justify being unkind, but helps to ease the possibility of reacting in a way you might regret and add to stress. Try and make a time to sit down with your daughter and have an open conversation about how she is feeling during these uncertain times. A creative way to allow your daughter the opportunity to share their feelings openly could be by creating a “Thought Box”, with the idea of your daughter writing down her thoughts and talking through them together.
With the increase in time spent at home with family for longer periods of time, it is important to sit down and discuss with your loved ones about family goals and clear expectations. Children thrive on routine, so negotiate homework time, or help with chores around the house, etc. This could be in the form of a “Rewards System” where teenagers have a clear understanding of expectations and are acknowledged through positive reinforcement. For yourself, this may look like separating ‘home life’ with ‘working from home’. Take the time for just family and connection, where each member can spend valuable family time in a shared activity. For example, a family project such as organising old family photos into a scrap book is a perfect way to bond and share memories. Also, a Netflix series the whole family could sit down and watch together would create something to look forward to once a week.
When we are constantly together for extended times, it is normal to want your own space. Designating different areas around the house for ‘work’ or ‘chill-out’ so that your daughter or partner knows what happens where can be valuable. Making activity corners in different spaces will help you to feel that you are doing things differently. For example, knowing that the lounge room is for chill-out and not for work. When setting these designated areas make sure it is negotiated with other members of the family, so that you all have a clear understanding. Take a short break in this space and do something you want to do for yourself. Self-care is important - whether this is reading a book or enjoying a cup of tea.
Our thoughts and prayers are with you and your family during these difficult times.
Mia Davies
College Social Worker
