Dear Baldwin Park Unified Families,
As our communities continue to shelter at home, practice social distancing and do our part to limit the spread of COVID-19, it is more important than ever to take care of ourselves physically and mentally.
BPUSD recognizes May as Mental Health Month, providing all of us the opportunity to discuss the mental health challenges our communities face and to provide information, resources and support.
In keeping with our commitment to support all aspects of student success – including social-emotional health – we offer the following resources and guidelines to guide you through this challenging time.
Manage stress: The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention offers guidelines for identifying the signs of stress and coping with stressful circumstances caused by COVID-19.
Stay grounded: Learn and practice breathing exercises, which can help keep you clear-headed during a stressful day. Quiet self-reflection also can help you find calm in the “noise” of everyday life.
Journal your feelings: Let out your feelings by writing them down. Make note of what is causing stress. It also is helpful to remind yourself of things you are grateful for and list your blessings as often as possible.
Disconnect and relax: Disconnecting from technology and social media for a brief period can offer a much-needed mental break.
Make exercise fun: Regular physical activity can help reduce anxiety and improve your mood. Make it fun by dancing to a song or trying YouTube workout videos, but remember to practice social distancing if you are able to exercise outdoors.
Eat and sleep well: Eating nutritious meals, getting a good night’s sleep and maintaining a consistent schedule can help your physical and mental health.
Stay connected: Practice physical distancing, but not social-emotional distancing. Stay connected with loved ones and friends and reach out by phone, email, social media and video chats.
Treat yourself: Practice self-care by treating yourself to something you love. Make your favorite dessert, use a face mask or do an activity you enjoy.
Help others: Many members of our communities remain highly vulnerable to the impacts of COVID-19. Help others however you can, even if that means offering reassurance and emotional support.
Ask for help when you need it: If you or your children are experiencing worsening mental health systems, ask for help when you need it. Be honest with others about how you are feeling.
We understand this drastic change in everyday life poses significant challenges for all members of our community. If you or a loved one are experiencing anxiety or fear, know that resources are available for support and guidance.
- The Center for Integrated Family and Health Services provides telephone and telehealth (video conferencing) mental health services. Please call 626-967-5103 to request a therapist.
- The CA Peer-Run Warm Line is staffed 24/7 by peers with specialized training in supporting mental health challenges. The toll-free service can be reached at 855-845-7415. Web chat is available.
- Care Solace services are available at no cost to students, families and staff. A search algorithm matches individuals with mental health care resources within seconds. Care Solace generates referrals that take into account insurance policies, including private insurance, Medi-Cal, Medicaid and Medicare. For those who are uninsured, Care Solace also identifies local care providers that allow individuals to pay out-of-pocket for services. The site does not require a username, home address, phone number or date of birth.
- Additional school-based mental health agencies include:
- Children's Bureau -- 626-337-8811
- Foothill Family Services -- 626-993-3000
- Hillsides -- 626.373.2900
- Kaiser Permanente Educational Outreach Program (EOP) -- 626-814-6408
We encourage our communities to embrace Mental Health Month, seek help when needed and support others who may need help. Together, we will navigate through the challenging times and continue to support the success of our students.
For more information, please visit our Mental Health page.