Guidance Department Update
March 2020
20th March 2020
Dear Students,
As a Guidance Counsellor, I am usually there for you in person but now things are a little different. To help with problems such as stress management/ anxiety/CAO or UCAS queries and or any other problem you are finding difficult, you are free to email me during normal college hours. You may only email from your school email address. My email addresses is as follows: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.
I may only be able to help with some pointers and tips but that might do the trick. This will not offer the same therapeutic benefits that normal counselling or support in person would, but I will do my best to help where I can.
If you are experiencing any major symptoms of anxiety / low mood / dark or strong feelings or suicidal thoughts, it is advised that you should to tell a close friend or family member and make an appointment with your GP straight away.
Please do not worry about how college closures will affect things for you. There will be efforts made to get us through and to find the best solutions with all the matters that arise including completion of your assignment, coursework and exams etc. Things will be worked out over the course of time.
Some pointers: (Institute of Guidance Counsellors)
- Stay calm – these are challenging times, we will get through them.
- Maintain a sense of routine every day so shower/ dress / create a separate study space/take regular breaks/ stay connected with your class group or friends / get some fresh air and sunlight.
- Keep up with coursework, do something every day, follow your usual timetable.
- It is important that you do not spend excessive time on social media. Understandably you can connect with friends on social media but please limit your time and recognise when you are spending too much time and do something else away from your phone (turn on the app monitoring your phone usage time – take note of this
For careers related issues I will be sending out alerts and relevant information to you in due course. Please keep an eye on the college website and Moodle for these messages and communications. I have set up a Careers Section on Moodle and the auto enrolment key is set to ‘ofi’.
These are strange times but we are all in this together and we will come through it wiser and more appreciative of the simplest pleasures in life. Keep looking after yourselves and following the hygiene procedures to stay healthy and well. We have attached a list of services which may also be helpful and we look forward to getting back to normal duties when it’s safe to do so.
Yours sincerely,
Karen Cawley
Guidance Counsellor
In these challenging times, we would encourage you to exercise self-care and keep some structure in your day. It’s important to pay attention to your needs and feelings, especially during times of stress. You may still be able to do some of the things you enjoy and find relaxing. Support is available as follows:
Mental Health supports and services during COVID-19
Facts on Coronavirus
Tips on Minding your Mental Health
Mental Health Supports
- https://www.hse.ie/eng/services/list/4/mental-health-services/connecting-for-life/news/supports-and-services-during-covid-19.html
- https://www2.hse.ie/services/mental-health/services-search/
A Lust For Life - Mental Health Charity Ireland
Mental Health Freephone
1800 111 888 This is a phone service you can call any time of the day to direct you to the correct service for your needs
SOSAD Dundalk
1800 111 888 So Sad is currently closed but are available via email This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.
Dundalk Outcomers
1800 111 888 Dundalk Outcomers are available via online chat on Facebook and on phone 087 6200021
Women’s Aid
1800 111 888 Still available by phone 042 9333244
Rape Crisis North East
Freephone Confidential Helpline number 1800 21 21 22 will remain open Monday to Friday 10.00 am to 4.00 pm. Email This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. Web www.rcne.ie
Louth Child and Family Support Network Newsletter - Edition 4 - Updated on the 24th April 2020
Please click here to read the full document
inspire Workplaces Wellbeing for all - Looking after Your Mental Health During COVID-19
Online Learning