COVID-19 Coping Tips & Resources for Parents & Family

Scroll to the bottom for a list of additional resources, including a video for parents, news, self-care, and tips on supporting your college student.

Coping Tips

  • Use trusted resources for news rather than relying on social media or sensational sources.
  • Take breaks from news and limit the amount you read/watch each day to avoid getting overwhelmed while staying informed.
  • Focus on things you can control rather than those you can't and the uncertainty we face currently. For example, focus on day-to-day tasks, adhering to social distancing and hand-washing precautions, planning quality time with your family, and scheduling calls and video chats with others close to you.
  • It can be tough adjusting to different living situations and roles if your adult children have moved back home and family members are home together most of the time. It's normal for people to feel more irritable with each other. Good communication and regular discussions of expectations may help, as well as finding ways to balance together time with personal space. Be patient with yourself and each other.
  • A recent survey of more than 3000 college students by Active Minds found that the most important thing parents can do for their student during the pandemic is to spend time with them.
  • Pay attention to your own wellness and needs while taking care of others. This includes trying to get enough sleep, eating well, getting some exercise (preferably outside), engaging in religious and spiritual practices, enjoying some entertainment, and finding things that relax and soothe you. See the list below for resources for taking care of yourself and your student.
  • Seek professional help if you need it. Find mental health care through your primary care provider or insurance company, employer's EAP program, or low-cost local agencies if you don't have insurance. Getting professional help is especially important if you are experiencing some of the following:
    • Anxiety-related trouble sleeping or eating
    • Inability to work or function day  to day
    • Thoughts about harming yourself
    • The occurrence of physical, emotional, verbal, and/or sexual violence

Additional Resources

Video

Video From CAPS: Parent/family self-care and supporting your USF student

NEWS, SELF-CARE, EDUCATION, COVID-19 INFORMATION

Supporting your student