Emotional Support Resources

We have faced many, many challenges since last March, things we never anticipated, and some that were compounded by the stresses of the pandemic. One of those is taking care of ourselves and our mental and emotional health. We must consider the toll that the pandemic is taking on all of us, adults and children alike. 

At last week's press conference with Governor Scott, Mental Health Commissioner Sarah Squirrell talked about the strain COVID-19 has placed on our daily lives. People are struggling with isolation, unemployment, financial pressure, housing and food challenges.

“My message to Vermonters today, is that you are not alone, it’s OK to not feel OK right now,” Squirrell said. “Do not be afraid to talk about it, and don’t be afraid to ask for help.” 

If you or someone you know is in crisis or needs emotional support, help is available 24/7:

• Call your local mental health crisis line.
• Text VT to 741741 to talk with someone at the Crisis Text Line.
• Call the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 1-800-273-8255.  For more information visit healthvermont.gov/suicide.

• Visit our Coping With Stress web page.
• Get connected to Alcohol and Drug Support Services at VT Helplink.
• Get self-help tips and connect to mental health services at COVID Support VT.

Last week, CVSD's Director of Integrated Wellness, Tony Moulton, shared a 1-minute meditation exercise with faculty and staff. We thought we'd pass it along to others as well. 

1-Minute Resiliency Building Meditation

A. 10 seconds align posture: This does not require a quiet place. It can be done in a busy environment or a room where you are alone. Ideally it is done sitting but this can also be done standing. It is wonderful for waiting in a physically distanced line at the grocery store. First consider your posture. Straighten your back and neck, soften your shoulders, relax your jaw allowing a space to open between your teeth, and close your eyes if you are sitting and it feels comfortable to do so.

B. 50 seconds environment-awareness: Bring your awareness to the noises around you. Observe them without judgement or commentary. Move from one to the next with interest and curiosity. When your mind wanders, which it will, to thoughts and plans that might involve work, home or loved ones, gently invite your attention back to what you are hearing. Those sounds could include: conversations, the clattering of dishes, a fan from a heating system or your own stomach grumbling. Regarding conversations try not to focus on the words being said, but instead the sounds and tone being conveyed. Then gently move on to observe what other noises you can find in your environment.

C. Wrap Up: Take a few moments to reflect on what you heard. Take an inventory of the sounds that brought your attention back to the present moment and withdrew it from the stories, plans and internal dialogue we can all get lost in. Like other healthy habits, if you repeat this daily it will soon become a normal and welcome respite and will help build your resiliency.