As we process the recent events in our community, we want to acknowledge the very real emotions many of you may be experiencing—anxiety, sadness, or uncertainty. These responses are natural, and it’s important to honor them while taking steps to protect your own mental health and that of your family. Our commitment is to meet you and your loved ones where you are and offer guidance that’s both clinically informed and compassionate.
Here are some ways to support yourself and those you care about:
1. Acknowledge What You’re Feeling
Recognizing your emotions is the first step toward healing. Encourage open, honest conversations within your family, and use language your children can understand. Younger children may need reassurance and gentle explanations, while older kids and teens may benefit from space to express their feelings.
2. Limit Exposure to Stressful News
Repeated exposure to distressing news can increase stress for adults and children alike. Consider setting boundaries on screen time and making time for activities that foster calm and connection. Redirecting attention to uplifting or routine family moments can provide a sense of safety and predictability.
3. Prioritize Daily Self-Care
Caring for yourself is essential to caring for others. Small, intentional acts—like taking a walk outside, practicing deep breathing or mindfulness, or enjoying a favorite activity with your family—can support emotional regulation and resilience.
4. Create a Safe, Supportive Environment for Children
Children look to adults for reassurance. Invite questions, provide honest yet comforting answers, and let them know you are there. Extra routines or rituals, like family meals or bedtime stories, can help reinforce a sense of security.
5. Reach Out for Professional Support If Needed
If you or your family are experiencing persistent distress, reaching out for professional support is a positive step. Skilled therapists can offer strategies for coping, processing, and building resilience together as a family.
6. Use the Resources Available to You
We are a resourceful and compassionate community. Take advantage of supports, including:
- Employee Assistance Programs (EAPs)
- Mental health hotlines or telehealth counseling services
- Local and national mental health organizations
We recognize the impact these events can have not just on individuals, but on families as a whole. Please know that you are not alone. We are committed to walking alongside you—helping you, your loved ones, and our community build skills for lifelong well-being.
Take gentle care of yourselves and each other.
Learn More About My Programs
Blue Bird Day is a rotational therapy program structured like a preschool or kindergarten, but instead of teachers all our staff are therapists! This program is designed to foster socialization, sensory regulation, and learning for children ages 2-7 and helps provide children the tools they need to succeed in a traditional classroom.
Eyas Landing is an outpatient therapy clinic that provides services for children ages 0-21. Our multidisciplinary team of therapists provide ABA, developmental, occupational, physical, speech, nutrition and feeding therapy along with early intervention, social work, counseling, and neuropsychological testing at our West Loop clinic, in-home, at school, and virtually.
Merlin Day Academy is a therapeutic day school for children ages 6-14. Our proprietary model utilizes daily therapeutic and educational rotations to support children’s growth, learning, and their transition into the least restrictive environment possible.