QUINCY (WGEM) – There may be some waves of anxiety this week after several online threats were made against local schools.
Parents whose children attend school in one of the threatened districts said the past week had been scary. What was supposed to be a safe space felt unsafe. So she and her husband left their children at home from school.
“He was scared,” Christy Osterber said. “He didn’t want to go to school, so I told him to stay home.”
Trey Sexton, a counselor with Transitions of Western Illinois, said it’s not surprising that recent events have caused anxiety. Communication is key to mitigating that, he said. Sitting down at the dinner table and talking about everyone’s feelings can help people with anxiety feel less alone in their emotions.
Mr. Sexton also said he is checking on your children.
“A simple phrase like, ‘Hey, how are you doing’ can save lives. It gives kids something positive to focus on, a change they can make. Underlying anxiety is a catalyst for change. ,” Sexton said.
He advised children to talk to a trusted school counselor, friend or family member if they are feeling anxious.
Sexton said coping techniques such as focusing on your breathing and your five senses can also be helpful.
Osterber warned against fanning the flames, especially when information is spreading like wildfire, especially if it is unconfirmed.
Protecting children from such things can also reduce anxious thoughts.
“The most important thing for us as parents is to avoid spreading rumors until we have some form of corroboration. That only adds fuel to the fire and worsens the mental health of our children and families. ‘Because I think they’re parents,’ Osterber said.
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