Five Tips From Susan Krauss, LCSW Psychotherapist and Founder and Clinical Director of BOOST! Child and Family Services and BOOST! University
By Chloe Cornell
Susan Krauss, LCSW is a psychotherapist and Founder and Clinical Director of BOOST! Child and Family Services, a full-service counseling center located in Westport, CT. BOOST! offers a range of services including individual psychotherapy, family & group therapy, speech and language therapy, parenting workshops and educational/psychological testing.
In response to the increase in mental health issues on college campuses, the company recently launched BOOST! University (BOOST! U) – an online and mobile-based platform specifically created for college students to receive counseling including immediate support, with flexible options to align with the college lifestyle. Designed to overcome the barriers to standard therapy service whether it be shame, scheduling challenges, or lack of access to quality care on campus, same-day sessions and immediate crisis support/referrals for emergency care are offered.
Additionally, in perfect timing for the Coronavirus Pandemic, BOOST! has partnered with Namaste Wellness – a company that specializes in holistic wellness. Namaste and BOOST! offer comprehensive programs & a la carté services including meditation and mindfulness practices, yoga, fitness, and wellness coaching for children, teens and young adults.
Susan is well aware of the added stress and difficult emotions that teenagers are now dealing with due to the disruption that the coronavirus is creating in our society. In light of this unprecedented pandemic, we are modifying this month’s Five Questions format and instead I have asked Susan to offer her suggestions for us during this time of social isolation and worldwide trauma.
Susan Krauss’s Five Tips for Teens to Stay Calm During the Corona Pandemic:
Create a daily routine
Make a list of everything you want to achieve each day to keep motivation. Make sure to include a fun activity or hobby to avoid extended amounts of time using technology. This routine can be flexible and don’t worry if there are days you don’t stick exactly to it. It should serve as a framework!
Change out of your pajamas
Even if you put on comfortable clothes, it will show that you are differentiating between bedtime and daytime and will help create a sense of normalcy in these abnormal times. If you are up for it, add some makeup or do your hair especially on days you may be feeling stressed, sad or other negative emotions.
Stay connected with friends and family
Technology is a good way to host virtual social hours. Even though you are physically isolated, it is great to maintain your relationships. The CDC recommends connecting with others and talking through your concerns. If you need additional support seek out professional help via an online platform. There are lots of helpers out there ready and willing to support you.
Physical activity is key
Whether you are involved in sports or not, now is a great time to set individual fitness goals. There are many great tutorials online with varying exercise levels-do what you are comfortable with! Yoga and meditation are especially healing during times of stress.
Spend time outdoors
Being outside can boost endorphin levels and increase dopamine production. It is also good to get out of the house for fresh air and a vitamin D boost! Connect with nature and notice the beauty that surrounds you.
An Extra Word of Wisdom – “Don’t fight the feels”
In other words, let yourself feel whatever it is and be open to a range of emotions. In unpredictable times, feelings can cover the spectrum and that’s absolutely to be expected. Be aware of your emotions but don’t judge yourself.
BOOST! is an amazing resource for teens based anywhere in the U.S. You can find more information about their company, team and services by visiting their website at http://kidsboost.com.
