COVID-19: Resources for specific population groups
The COVID-19 pandemic is unsettling: it brings about uncertainty and forces change upon us. Therefore, evidence-based resources are being put together to help everyone manage possible negative mental health effects (such as stress and anxiety) as well as to strengthen psychosocial wellbeing. The National Centre for Suicide Research and Prevention of Mental Ill-Health (NASP) has collected freely accessible resources for specific population groups.
For children
Children hear and see everything. In this complicated time protecting them and educating them with appropriate tools is very important. You can find below a book to read to them and some guidance for parents or caregivers.
This guide gives practical advices for parents to assist their children and help them cope with stress during the outbreak. (WHO)
This parenting resource website offers several guides about specific parental situations. For example, it includes guidance about one-on-one time, how to deal with bad behaviour, talking about covid-19 and so forth. (Parenting for lifelong health and WHO)
This book (with pictures) can help parents to talk about the COVID-19 pandemic and explain protective measures to children. Please note that it is advised to have a parent or caregiver reading the book with the children. (Inter-Agency Standing Committee)
For teenagers
Here you can read about the impact of the crisis on teenagers and discover some initiatives to help yourself (or your teenager if you are a parent).
This article offers practical suggestions and advice about how to improve your mental health during the crisis. (UNICEF)
This initiative allows teenagers to talk about their situation if they are affected by school closure. You can read some of the participants stories and participate by using the hashtag #voiceofyouth. (Voices of the Youth)
For people with learning disabilities, autism, or dementia
This section provides general inclusive advice about how to cope during the crisis. You can find an illustrated documents for people with learning disabilities or further support if you or your loved ones are on the autism spectrum or suffer from dementia.
This guide made by the United Kingdom government is an inclusive and illustrated resource explaining the COVID-19 situation and how to care for yourself and your loved ones. (Public Health England)
This document has accessible guides to improve your wellbeing during the COVID-19 crisis. It covers topics such as advice for staying home, taking care of your mental health and wellbeing as well as other interesting topics. (MIND UK)
This document gives general advice to improve your mental health. It also offers further support if you have a learning disability, if you are on the autism spectrum or if you suffer from dementia. (Public Health England)
For older people
This document highlights factors that impact the mental health of older adults and give some ideas about what you could do to help the people around you. (American Foundation for Suicide Prevention)
For people working from home
This document includes tips and information to enable you to work better from home and create a healthy routine. (Black Dog Institute)